|
Sign In to gain access to subscriptions and/or personal tools.
|
Self-Control, Prison Victimization, and Prison Infractions
Kent R. Kerley, Ph.D.1*,
Andy Hochstetler, Ph.D.2,
and
Heith Copes, Ph.D.1
1 University of Alabama at Birmingham
2 Iowa State University
* To whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail: krkerley{at}uab.edu.
 |
Abstract |
|---|
Gottfredson and Hirschi’s self-control theory has been the subject of much debate and empirical testing. Although the theory was developed originally as an explanation for criminal offending, researchers recently have examined whether low self-control may increase the risk of criminal victimization. This study assesses the effects of low self-control on victimization and offending among the incarcerated. We utilize structural equation models to test the impact of low self-control on prison victimization and prison infractions based on a study involving 208 recently paroled inmates from a Midwestern state. The results indicate that risk taking is a significant predictor of prison victimization and temper is a significant predictor of infractions. We conclude that self-control theory is a potential predictor of prison infractions and victimization and that personality traits seen as generally criminogenic in the free world may have particular situational ramifications in prison.
First published on March 13, 2009, doi:10.1177/0734016809332840
Criminal Justice Review 2009;34:553.
A more recent version of this article appeared on December 1, 2009
 CiteULike  Complore  Connotea  Del.icio.us  Digg  Reddit  Technorati  Twitter What's this?
|
|
