A LATENT VARIABLE ANALYSIS OF GENERAL STRAIN THEORY

Strain theory has returned to the forefront of criminological theory a nd research, due primarily to the general strain model developed by Ro bert Agnew. Agnew posits that a broad range of negative social relatio ns comprises strain and that these straining mechanisms lead to delinq uent behavior and other maladaptive functioning. Moreover, strain has its strongest effect on delinquency when certain coping strategies are attenuated or when delinquent peers reinforce perceptions of strain. Although several studies have now shown the utility of general strain theory as an explanation of delinquency, they have relied mainly on cr oss-sectional effects or two-wave panel designs using methods that fai l to consider measurement error or autocorrelated errors. In this stud y we extend these analyses by estimating a latent variable structural equation model that examines the effects of strain-operationalized as negative life events-on conventional attachment and delinquency over a 3-year period. Furthermore, we directly assess Agnew's ''coping strat egies'' hypotheses by stratifying the models by self-efficacy, self-es teem, and peer delinquency. The results indicate that significant long itudinal effects of strain on delinquency emerge during year 3 but tha t these effects are not conditioned by self-efficacy or self-esteem. C hanges in strain also affect changes in delinquency, but only among th ose who report no delinquent peers. We do find, however, that over the initial 2 years strain has a negative effect on delinquency among tho se high in self-efficacy, self-esteem, or delinquent peers. The findin gs are discussed in terms of Agnew's theory.