A test of self-control theory across different socioeconomic strata

The current investigation examined the relationships between family processes, self-control, and adolescent deviance in a sample of N = 3,764 Swiss male and female youth pursuing an apprenticeship (lower SES) or attending a Gymnasium/teacher's college (higher SES). Participants completed a questionnaire that included measures of family processes, self-control, and deviant behaviors. Results indicated that self-control predicted adolescent deviance in both groups, and that direct and indirect effects existed in the relationships between family processes, self-control, and deviance. Findings provided evidence of comparatively few differences in the observed associations by SES, though the magnitude of the positive effect by low self-control on deviance was more modest in male apprentices as compared to non-apprentices. Findings are discussed in terms of the implications for Self-Control Theory.