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Self-Control and Variability Over Time: Multivariate Results Using a 5-Year, Multisite Panel of Youths

NCJ Number
215855
Journal
Crime & Delinquency Volume: 52 Issue: 2 Dated: April 2006 Pages: 253-286
Author(s)
L. Thomas Winfree Jr.; Terrance J. Taylor; Ni He; Finn-Aage Esbensen
Date Published
April 2006
Length
34 pages
Annotation
This study tested Gottfredson and Hirschi’s general theory of crime through an examination of self-control levels, self-reported criminal behavior, and deviant attitudes among a panel of youths from six cities.
Abstract
The results regarding sex and race/ethnicity supported the general theory of crime in that males reported higher levels of risk seeking and higher levels of impulsivity than did females. Males thus exhibited lower levels of self-control than did females when all other factors were controlled. However, the general theory of crime claims that low self-control is invariable across time while the findings here indicate that the nature of self-control changes with time. Furthermore, the results indicate that self-control is possibly a multidimensional construct that should be reexamined to include a number of measures such as impulsivity and risk taking. The findings suggest that policy analysts should focus on programming that supports parent management and supervision skills in order to have a positive impact on the self-control development of youth. Data were collected as part of the longitudinal National Evaluation of the Gang Resistance Education and Training program, in which 965 students attending 22 middle schools in 6 cities were purposively selected to complete a survey on delinquency during the fall semester for 5 consecutive years (1995 through 1999). Variables under analysis included gender, race/ethnicity, delinquent behavior, family structure, and risk seeking, and impulsivity. Data analysis included the use of t tests, analysis of variance, and one-way generalized least squares (GLS) random-effects regression models. Future research should continue to probe the validity of the self-control construct. Tables, figures, appendix, notes, references