Strain, Attribution, and Traffic Delinquency Among Young Drivers: Measuring and Testing General Strain Theory in the Context of Driving

• NCJ Number: 233301
• Journal: Crime & Delinquency Volume: 53 Issue: 4 Dated: October 2007 Pages: 523-551
• Author(s): Steven J. Ellwanger
• Date Published: October 2007
• Length: 29 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This article enhances our knowledge of general strain theory (GST) by applying it to the context of traffic delinquency.

Abstract

It does so by first describing and confirming the development of a social-psychological measure allowing for a test of GST. Structural regression analysis is subsequently employed to test the theory within this context across a range of delinquent driving behaviors. Tests indicate that strain experienced while operating a motor vehicle consists of distinct contexts that when considered separately both enhance our understanding of GST and spell policy implications for state-directed interventions. Implications for future GST testing, measurement, and application are also discussed. (Published Abstract)