Citation

McCarthy B, Hagan J. Am. J. Sociol. 1992; 98(3): 597-627.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1992, University of Chicago Press)

DOI

10.1086/230050

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Contemporary sociological theories of delinquency emphasize bakcground and developmental factors while neglecting adverse situational conditions. This study uses data from youths on the street and in school to test an integration of strain and control theories that spans background and situational factors. After background and situational factors. After background and street exposure variables are controlled for and after school and street samples are combined, there is consistent evidence of the effects of adverse situational conditions: hunger causes theft, and problems of unemployment and shelter produce prostitution. These findings broaden and increase theoretical understanding of street life and crime.