User:Kiahnadenae/Self-control theory of crime

Self-Control Theory of Crime Contribution
The General Theory of Crime or GTC is a criminological theory published in 1984 and was originally introduced by Michael R. Gottfredson and Travis Hirschi. Since the release of the GTC, it has received a large amount of criticism and improvements by other theorist including Sigmund Freud's. Gottfredson and Hirschi, General Theory of Crime state that all crime can be understood through low self-control and opportunity (high in benefits). The theorist used a three-pronged socialization process including the Age Postulate, Stability Postulate, and the Versatility Postulate to explain crime and self-control.

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Hirschi and Gottfredson argued that an important factor behind crime is individual lack of self-control. Individual self-control and the reduction of deviant behaviors can be explained through Hirschi and Gottfredson three-pronged socialization process.

The Age Postulate suggests delinquency occurs during the early to mid-stages of adolescence and reaches an all-time high during adolescence. After the peak of deviance during the adolescence stage, deviant behaviors decrease as individuals reach adulthood. The Stability Postulate suggest criminal acts or deviancy is related to a lack of socialization. For example, Gottfredson and Hirschi suggest children who lack socialization, such as low parental supervision, will possibly commit crime later in life. Lastly, the Versatility Postulate suggest individuals who engage in formal acts of deviancy (not doing homework) will likely be the same individuals engaging in criminal behaviors (drug use, burglaries, assaults).

Also See:
Reality Principle

Pleasure Principle