NCJ Number
144622
Journal
Criminal Justice and Behavior Volume: 20 Issue: 3 Dated: (September 1993) Pages: 227-239
Date Published
1993
Length
13 pages
Annotation
This article outlines a script theory of macho personality and discusses its potential forensic application in the understanding of criminal behavior, the prediction of future dangerousness, and the treatment of male offenders.
Abstract
The macho personality constellation consists of the view of violence as manly, danger as exciting, callous sexuality toward women, and toughness as self-control. Research using the Hypermasculinity Inventory, developed to operationalize the macho personality construct, indicates that macho men are more likely to act violently toward other men, to act violently and callously toward women, and to seek out dangerous situations. Potential areas of application of this theory in the criminal justice system include drug abuse, rape and sexual assault, sexual harassment, gang violence, "lust" murders, and abuse of women and children in general. 19 references (Author abstract modified)