NCJ Number
224311
Journal
International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology Volume: 52 Issue: 5 Dated: October 2008 Pages: 554-570
Date Published
October 2008
Length
17 pages
Annotation
Taking into account the conceptual framework of personality systems interaction (PSI) theory and the interpersonal concepts related to cognitive-behavioral and affective antecedents of aggression, this study attempted to contribute to the understanding of self-regulation as an important dimension in aggressive criminal behavior.
Abstract
Findings confirm that self-regulation, which is primarily characterized by the ability to self-soothe or to reduce stress or tension under pressure, is negatively related to aggression. Self-inhibition, decisional inhibition, and decisional control were positively related to aggression. These variables comprise negative mental states impeding the realization of decisional intentions or goals (self-inhibition) and the proneness to being distracted from tasks, to lack of energy, initiative, and concentration and to defy tasks imposed by others or to avoid effort. Cognitive self-control was not related to self-reported aggression. It was concluded that the results of the study may serve as building blocks from which conceptually useful research hypotheses and intervention strategies may be derived and tested empirically. Prior research indicates that self-regulation plays an important role in the phenomenology of human aggression, and it is crucial for advancing the understanding of the development and psychopathology of violent behavior. On the basis of personality systems interaction (PSI) theory, this study examined self-regulation, conflict behavior, behavioral resources, and personality disorders in a sample of 83 male offenders and explored the role self-regulatory variables play with respect to aggressive behavior. Figure, tables, and references