NCJ Number
216145
Journal
Criminal Justice Studies Volume: 19 Issue: 3 Dated: September 2006 Pages: 257-273
Date Published
September 2006
Length
17 pages
Annotation
Using self-report survey data from a sample of 425 college students in 2001, this study examined whether parental support influenced the link between low self-control and deviant behavior.
Abstract
The study found that parental support could only partially affect the link between low self-control and deviant behavior. Low self-control's total effect on deviance indicates that parental support can mediate and reduce the link between low self-control and deviance; however, when low self-control exists, some level of deviance will exist even when parental support is present. Since parental support is influential in reducing the frequency of deviant behavior, it would be worthwhile to develop parenting programs that focus on how parents can show concern and understanding, as well as provide assistance to young adult children with low self-control. Multiple interventions may be the most effective in improving parental support that reduces the link between low self-control and deviant behavior. The sample of college students was administered a survey that contained multiple measures that captured parental behaviors toward respondents, respondents' level of self control, and a single measure of deviance. Deviance was measured with 16 items (e.g., cheating in school, drug use, alcohol consumption, theft, and fighting). Low self-control was measured by reactions to various statements and vignettes, and perceived parental support was measured with 18 items designed to identify current parenting practices. 1 table, 2 figures, 8 notes, 52 references, and appended survey questionnaire