NCJ Number
113415
Journal
Deviant Behavior Volume: 9 Issue: 3 Dated: (1988) Pages: 241-257
Date Published
1988
Length
17 pages
Annotation
Even though it is unlawful to send chain letters through the mail, thousands of Americans send them to friends, acquaintances, and strangers in hopes that their names will move to the top of the pyramid, and they will receive the influx of tax free dollars from those at the bottom of the chain.
Abstract
This paper analyzes the content and structure of the chain letter and also describes the accounts which chain letter players (N=129) provide for their participation. Differences between male and female accounts and participation strategies are provided. The implications for these differences for understanding participation in the underground economy are discussed. (Publisher abstract)