Gender and Crime: A General Strain Theory Perspective

Abstract

This study applies Agnew's general strain theory (GST) to two fundamental questions about gender and crime: (1) How can we explain the higher rate of crime among males? (2) How can we explain why females engage in crime? With respect to the first question, the authors suggest that gender differences in types of strain and the reaction to strain help one understand the gender gap in criminal behavior. With respect to the second question, it is argued that several types of strain may lead to female crime under the proper circumstances. In this area, GST has much in common with numerous accounts that explain female crime in terms of oppression.

The moderating effects of religiosity on the relationship between stressful life events and delinquent behavior

“…General strain theory (Broidy & Agnew, 1997) argues that males commit more acts of delinquency than females because (a) males and females experience different types of strain, and (b) males and females react differently to strain. First, although females experience as much strain (or more) as males, males experience strains more conducive to delinquency.…”

“…Second, Broidy and Agnew (1997) argue that gender differences in responding to strain account for differences in offending rates. Although males and females are equally as likely to respond to strain with anger, females are more likely to respond with emotions, such as depression and guilt that are not as conducive to delinquency.…”

“…Tests of GST that have focused on gender differences provide mixed support for Broidy and Agnew's (1997) hypotheses. For example, studies by Hay (2003) and Mazerolle (1998) found that males had higher rates of delinquency partially because they were more likely than females to experience harsh punishment.…”

Beyond Crime Statistics: The Construction and Application of a Criminogenity Monitor in Amsterdam

“…However, why men are overrepresented in crime statistics is a complicated puzzle. Gender-specific social norms and responses to strain accompanied by a different moral consciousness as well as biologically driven physical strength and natural aggressiveness are asserted to explain male's distinctive overrepresentation in the criminal justice system (Broidy and Agnew 1997;South and Messner 2000). Insofar as policy recommendations are available, Agnew (1995) suggests improving social support for (adolescent) males struggling with such diverse stimuli as broken (romantic) friendships, a lack of respect and money, and adverse experiences with parents, peers and teachers.…”

Understanding Women in Prison: A Review of Gender Specific Needs and Risk Assessments and their Policy and Research Implications

“…In the preceding discussion, we argued that the following types of strain may be especially conductive to crime among females: the failure to achieve financial and interpersonal expectations; the failure to be treated in a just and fair manner by others, including family members, intimate others, and employers; the loss of positive ties to others; a broad range of restrictions on behavior…the experience of emotional, physical, and sexual abuse; the role-related strains often associated with "pink-collar" jobs and the housewife role (Agnew et al 1997) The strain that men are facing, according to Agnew, promotes a more violent and serious appearance, while female crime is displayed through internalizing the oppression placed upon them. Using literature on gender and stress, Agnew et al points out women are more likely to internalize their strain, committing nonviolent crimes, such as substance abuse.…”