Strain, Criminal Propensity, and Violence: Examining the Role of the Composite Moderator in Agnew’s Extension to GST

Abstract

Utilizing a sample of 400 homeless street youth, this article examines Agnew’s recent extension to General Strain Theory and the identification of a composite moderator. Using an amalgamated moderator composed of low self-control, violent peers, and street code adherence, the study investigates how this combination increases the likelihood that individuals will respond to strain with violence. Findings indicate that four forms of child abuse and neglect, vicarious violent victimization, homelessness, and anger are all more likely to lead to violent offending when conditioned by the moderator. Findings are discussed and suggestions for future research are offered.