Sociability, School Experience, and Delinquency

Abstract

Some adolescents are attracted to hedonistic activities because of their active sociability and negative school experiences. This study examines the effects of these two variables in comparison with variables from labeling theory and control theory. Results show that active sociability is a strong predictor of delinquent behavior for African American and White teenagers. Negative school experience predicts delinquency only among Whites. Labeling and control theories receive tepid support.