Title

Can general strain theory be used to explain recidivism among registered sex offenders?

Publication Date

5-1-2012

Document Type

Article

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of the current study was to assess sex offender recidivism in the context of General Strain Theory (GST). Methods Surveys were mailed to 3,506 sex offenders with (N = 939) in Nebraska, (N = 1,850) in Kansas and (N = 717) in Montana. Questions related to strain associated with registration and community notification, anger, depression, and criminal behavior were asked. OLS Regression was utilized to predict overall recidivism, as well as sex, violent, drug, and property recidivism. Results Findings suggest that GST is supported when analyzing recidivism. Conclusions In the context of these findings, policymakers would do well to reexamine the broad use of registration and community notification laws.

Publication Title

Journal of Criminal Justice

Volume

40

Issue

3

First Page

187

Last Page

193

DOI

10.1016/j.jcrimjus.2011.11.002

Publisher Policy

pre-print, post-print

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