Does Parental Control Moderate the Effect of Low Self-Control on Adolescent Offline and Online Delinquency?

Abstract

The article elaborates on central interpretations of the general theory of crime regarding parental control, self-control, and delinquency by analyzing the effect of parental control on the association between low self-control and adolescents' offline and online delinquency. Analyses employ mediation and moderation models via structural equation modeling with a nationally representative sample of Finnish adolescents (N = 6,061). Results indicate parental control had direct and indirect associations (via self-control) with offline delinquency. Whereas, parental control had only an indirect association with delinquency online. The direct association between self-control (internal control) and offline and online delinquency was moderated by parental social control (external control). General theory of crime provides a useful perspective for exploring the effect of parental control on adolescents' delinquency. Findings bring new evidence on the dynamics between low self-control and parental control. Future studies should continue investigating the interplay between internal and external controls.