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Appearance and Delinquency

NCJ Number
95106
Journal
Criminology Volume: 22 Issue: 3 Dated: (August 1984) Pages: 421-440
Author(s)
R Agnew
Date Published
1984
Length
20 pages
Annotation
This article examines the relationship between appearance and self-reported delinquency.
Abstract
Based on prior research, it is hypothesized that (1) unattractive individuals will be more delinquent, and (2) strain, labeling, and social control variables will mediate the relationship between appearance and delinquency. Data from a national sample of adolescent boys support the first hypothesis. Only partial support is provided for the second hypotheses, with social control variables explaining from 9% to 31% of the association between appearance and delinquency. Theoretical and methodological reasons for the limited support of the second hypothesis are discussed. (Publisher abstract)