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Criminal Behavior and Self-Control: Using the Dual Component Theory of Inhibition Regulation to Advance Self-Control and Crime Research

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Abstract

Predicting crime remains a central issue for social science research. Perspectives that consider the role of self-control have added greatly to our ability to explain and predict criminal behavior. However, this approach has been narrowly focused on the role of individual differences in trait self-control, limiting the potential of this approach to integrate a range of findings in the literature. To realize the full potential of the self-control construct to explain criminal behavior, we use the Dual Component Theory of Inhibition Regulation (DCTIR). We discuss how the model can account for a number of findings, including patterns of recidivism, age differences, and the role of socioeconomic factors in crime. The DCTIR provides a framework for integrating these findings, generating new predictions, and ultimately better predicting criminal behavior.

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  1. University of Wyoming, Laramie, USA

    Joshua J. Reynolds & Sean M. McCrea

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Joshua Reynolds declares that he has no conflict of interest. Sean McCrea declares that he has no conflict of interest.

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Reynolds, J.J., McCrea, S.M. Criminal Behavior and Self-Control: Using the Dual Component Theory of Inhibition Regulation to Advance Self-Control and Crime Research. Curr Psychol 37, 832–841 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12144-017-9567-y

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