Measuring Up: Assessing the Measurement Properties of Two Self-Control Scales

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

3-20-2013

Publication Title

Deviant Behavior

DOI

10.1080/01639625.2012.748619

ISSN

1521-0456

Abstract

Gottfredson and Hirschi's self-control theory is one of the most empirically tested explanations of criminal behavior. Yet questions remain about the operationalization of self-control. Researchers have examined the relationship between self-control and crime predominantly with the Grasmick et al. (1993) scale. However, research investigating the measurement properties of that scale has relied primarily on statistical techniques that may underestimate or fail to detect potential problems with the scale. In addition, Hirschi (2004) recently offered a revised operational definition of self-control, which he argued is more faithful to the original theory. To date, research using Hirschi's revised self-control measure is sparse. We contribute to the literature by using Rasch measurement and negative binomial models to examine the measurement properties and construct validity of the Grasmick et al. (1993) and Hirschi (2004) self-control scales. The findings indicate that while there are some differences, and revisions are necessary, both scales demonstrate adequate measurement properties and construct validity.

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