NCJ Number
239679
Journal
Criminology Volume: 50 Issue: 3 Dated: August 2012 Pages: 637-672
Date Published
August 2012
Length
36 pages
Annotation
This study proposes and tests a model of criminal decisionmaking that integrates the individual differences perspective with research and theorizing on proximal factors.
Abstract
The individual differences perspective is operationalized using the recent HEXACO personality structure. This structure incorporates the main personality traits, but it carries the advantage of also incorporating Self-Control within its personality sphere, and an additional trait termed Honesty-Humility. Furthermore, the model offers a new perspective on proximal predictors, "states," of criminal decisions by adding affect (i.e., feelings) to the rational choice-crime equation. The proposed model is tested using scenario data from a representative sample of the Dutch population in terms of gender, age, education level, and province (N = 495). As predicted by the model, personality was both directly and indirectly related to criminal decisionmaking. Specifically, the traits Emotionality, Self-Control, and Honesty-Humility were mediated by both affect and rational choice variables. Conscientiousness operated only indirectly on criminal decision making via rational choice. Together, the findings support a trait-state model of criminal decisionmaking. Published by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons.