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Strain and Juvenile Delinquency: A Critical Review of Agnew's General Strain Theory

NCJ Number
231684
Journal
Journal of Loss and Trauma Volume: 12 Issue: 4 Dated: July 2007 Pages: 383-418
Author(s)
Giacinto Froggio
Date Published
July 2007
Length
36 pages
Annotation
This article presents a critical analysis of the empirical evidence on general strain theory accumulated between 1992 and 2003.
Abstract
The past decades have seen a revived interest for criminological strain theories. Among these theories Agnew's general strain theory (a social psychological interpretation of juvenile delinquency) could be considered the most original and complete. It has a solid conceptual basis. Moreover, Agnew's theory has recalled the interest of researchers in the United States. A significant number of important surveys have been performed. However, until now there has not been a evaluation of the state of this theory. The purpose of this review is just a first critical evaluation of this theory and his empirical status. Some suggestions for future research are introduced. Table and references (Published Abstract)