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Strain, Attribution, and Traffic Delinquency Among Young Drivers: Measuring and Testing General Strain Theory in the Context of Driving

NCJ Number
233301
Journal
Crime & Delinquency Volume: 53 Issue: 4 Dated: October 2007 Pages: 523-551
Author(s)
Steven J. Ellwanger
Date Published
October 2007
Length
29 pages
Annotation
This article enhances our knowledge of general strain theory (GST) by applying it to the context of traffic delinquency.
Abstract
It does so by first describing and confirming the development of a social-psychological measure allowing for a test of GST. Structural regression analysis is subsequently employed to test the theory within this context across a range of delinquent driving behaviors. Tests indicate that strain experienced while operating a motor vehicle consists of distinct contexts that when considered separately both enhance our understanding of GST and spell policy implications for state-directed interventions. Implications for future GST testing, measurement, and application are also discussed. (Published Abstract)