NCJ Number
228846
Journal
Criminal Justice and Behavior Volume: 36 Issue: 10 Dated: October 2009 Pages: 1070-1084
Date Published
October 2009
Length
15 pages
Annotation
This study explored the trajectories of low self-control and violent victimization among adolescents.
Abstract
Findings conclude that the stability of low self-control and the nature of violent victimization are inextricably linked; analyses suggest that low self-control is a trait with relative stability over time. Also, the semi-parametric group-based models presented in this analysis based on victimization appear to be largely consistent with those produced with crime and delinquency as the outcome particularly in regard to the number of trajectory groups. This study provides the first application of this group-based technique to victimization, with results indicating that similar to offending, victimization appears to be an event that has hidden heterogeneity; that there are distinct types of victimization trajectories that vary in their prevalence and frequency over time; and that the research extends literature further by providing empirical evidence of a link between low self-control and violent victimization trajectories over time. This extension lends further credence to the argument that offenders and victims share similar risk factors, specifically low self-control. Data were collected from 3,500 sixth and seventh graders across 6 years from 22 schools in 6 large midsized cities across the United States using Gang Resistance Education and Training (GREAT) data, a program designed to reduce gang activity, and to provide some education about the consequence of gang activity and involvement. Tables, figures, notes, and references