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Examining the role of the social bond in the formation of violent crime intentions among incarcerated men

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  • Bouffard, Jeff A.
  • Niebuhr, Nicole

Abstract

A large volume of research has generally supported Hirschi's (1969) Social Bonding theory, although relatively little of this research has examined the utility of the theory among individuals involved in serious criminal behaviors. This study examined a number of elements of the individual's social bond, while also controlling for the potential relationships of several other types of criminogenic factors (i.e., measures of past criminality, levels of self-control, substance use frequency and deviant peer influences). Each of these variables is examined in relation to intentions to engage in two violent crimes (i.e., simple assault and armed robbery), among a sample of 428 men incarcerated for felony offenses. Specifically, we examined the influence of social factors such as one's attachment to a spouse/partner and other family members, commitment to legitimate work, and the individual's belief, and the extent of their involvement in and commitment to religion, along with controls for self-control and several demographic characteristics. Multivariate models suggest that a number of these factors significantly predict the intentions to engage in these two kinds of violent crime. Potential implications for correctional programming and limitations of the study are also discussed.

Suggested Citation

  • Bouffard, Jeff A. & Niebuhr, Nicole, 2026. "Examining the role of the social bond in the formation of violent crime intentions among incarcerated men," Journal of Criminal Justice, Elsevier, vol. 104(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:jcjust:v:104:y:2026:i:c:s0047235226000474
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jcrimjus.2026.102640
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