Self-Control Theory and Crime

Abstract

This chapter provides an overview of the self-control theory of crime and delinquency, including a critical review of research literature bearing on the validity of the theory. It discusses research on the origins of self control in the family and the relationships between levels of self control and delinquency and crime, school performance and misconduct, and other problem behaviors. General reviews of the theory in the literature and meta-analyses for self control, parenting and crime, and prevention studies focused on childhood are also discussed. In addition, the chapter reviews research on age and crime, generality effects, and self control over the life course. There is substantial research support for self-control theory and for the predictions it makes for the criminal justice system and for prevention of crime. Implications for global criminology, micro/macro integration of crime theory, and measurement of self control are discussed.