NCJ Number
209071
Journal
Justice Quarterly Volume: 22 Issue: 1 Dated: March 2005 Pages: 89-106
Date Published
March 2005
Length
18 pages
Annotation
This study investigated the process through which self-control influences peer relations and delinquency.
Abstract
The role of peers in the etiology of delinquency has been a well-researched subject. However, less is understood about the process by which adolescents select into deviant peer groups, as well as how self-control affects interpersonal relationships in adolescence. This study examined the relationship between self-control, peer relations, and delinquency. Three questions were addressed in this study: (1) does self-control predict peer rejection; (2) do people lacking in self-control select into deviant peer groups; and (3) do peer relations mediate the effect of self-control on delinquency? Data for this study were taken from the Children of the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth (NLSY-Child and Young Adult data). Findings suggest that peer relations exert a significant effect on delinquency. In addition, the results indicate that both peer rejection and association with deviant peers are predicted by low self-control. These findings suggest that the convergence of low self-control, peer relations, and delinquency remain an important area for future research. References