Personality (From Handbook of Juvenile Delinquency, P 139-183, 1987, Herbert C Quay, ed. -- See NCJ-106369)

• NCJ Number: 106374
• Author(s): J Arbuthnot; D A Gordon; G J Jurkovic
• Date Published: 1987
• Length: 45 pages
• Sale Source: John Wiley and Sons
• Publication Type: Literature Review
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This chapter reviews research into the relationship between personality and juvenile delinquency.

Abstract

In general, results of such studies have been inconsistent and equivocal, and several decades of research have failed to produce systematic associations between personality variables and delinquency. With the possible exception of self-concept, univariate constructs such as time orientation, impulsivity, locus of control, and sensation-seeking have yielded only modest differences at best. Studies of sociocognitive components have been more successful in identifying differences in such variables as sociomoral reasoning, interpersonal problemsolving, role taking, and empathy. While research in this area is improving, it is still hampered by definitional and methodological problems. Future research might profit by a greater focus on developmental aspects of sociocognitive functioning and the influence of various social systems (e.g., the family) on the etiology of antisocial behavior. Approximately 250 references.