An Examination of Differential Association and Social Control Theory

Abstract

This study applies differential association and social control theories to juvenile delinquency. Using a path analysis model, relationships between family, self-image, and behavior are explored. Analyses suggest that positive self-image leads to decreased delinquency, and association with delinquent peers is the greatest predictor of delinquent behavior, regardless of race.

Predictors of Gang Involvement: A Longitudinal Analysis of Data From the Mobile Youth Survey

“…The current study is informed by previous work conducted on the influence of peers, family cohesion, and self-worth on delinquency (see Church, Tomek et al, 2012;Church, Wharton et al, 2009). These studies demonstrated the importance of peer relationships and family cohesion on the development of delinquent behavior.…”

“…Several studies have demonstrated a connection between deviant behavior and family stability, poverty, and available resources (Church, Tomek et al, 2012;Church, Wharton, & Taylor, 2009;Farrington, Jolliffe, Loeber, Stouthamer-Loeber, & Kalb, 2001;Loeber & Farrington, 2000). Some studies have suggested that when parents provide little monitoring it is more likely that delinquent activity will progress to gang involvement (Lahey et al, 1999;Thornberry, 1998).…”

“…Specifically, positive cultural socialization and high self-worth lead to positive academic and behavioral outcomes (Hughes, Witherspoon, Rivas-Drake, & West-Bey, 2009). Therefore, it is not surprising that studies have demonstrated links between low selfworth and violence among delinquent youth (Church, Wharton et al, 2009;Ostrowsky, 2010) and between gang membership and low self-esteem (Blakemore & Blakemore, 1998;Wang, 1994).…”

“…Through the use of a longitudinal investigation, we hoped to develop some insight into how to alleviate these stressors through prevention or intervention rather than punitive measures of deterrence. We used the Church et al (2009) model as the empirical grounding for the current study, which investigated this primary research question: How do peer influence, family cohesion, and self-worth affect gang involvement in adolescents living in extreme poverty? The study adds to the literature in two ways.…”

An Empirical Investigation of Social Bonds and Juvenile Delinquency in Hong Kong

“…Interestingly, some studies found differential effects of social bonds on male and female delinquency (e.g., Church et al 2009;Dukes and Stein 2001). According to Mason and Windle (2002), the dimensions of social bond were not only gender-specific, but also varied across different types of delinquent conducts.…”