Gender Differences in Adverse Childhood Experiences, Self-Control, and Delinquency

Abstract

Considerable research has shown that adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are associated with the development of self-control and delinquent behaviors. Still, no studies have explicitly examined ACEs, low self-control, and delinquency to determine if they are jointly associated, including whether this relationship varies by gender. The current study examines this important gap in existing literature. Using data from the Fragile Families and Childhood Wellbeing Study (FFCW; n = 3,232), we uncover that low self-control mediates the relationship between early ACEs and delinquency and that this relationship exists for both girls and boys.