Which theory describes crime as resulting from a lack of self-control?

• A. Low self-control
• B. Strain/anomie
• C. Social disorganization
• D. Differential Association

Answer: (A)

The main concept being tested is that crime can be explained by a lack of self-control. In this view, individuals who have low self-control are more likely to engage in offenses because they are impulsive, seek immediate gratification, are risk-takers, and tend to be insensitive to long-term consequences. This trait tends to be stable across life due to early socialization and parenting; when opportunities for crime arise, those with low self-control are more prone to act, producing a wide range of offenses rather than one specific type.

This explanation is the best fit because it centers on a single personal trait predicting criminal behavior across different situations, rather than emphasizing external pressures or learned behaviors. Strain or anomie theory would focus on pressures from blocked goals and societal strain; social disorganization points to weaknesses in community structure and institutions; differential association argues crime is learned through interactions with others. All of these highlight environmental or social processes, whereas low self-control foregrounds a stable individual tendency that increases the likelihood of offending when opportunities appear.