Unraveling the covariation of low self-control and victimization: A behavior genetic approach

Abstract

A growing body of literature examining the antecedents of victimization experiences has suggested that personality constructs play a role in the origins of victimization. Low self-control, in particular, represents a trait thought to directly increase the risk of victimization. At the same time, different lines of evidence suggest that genetic factors account for portions of the variance in both self-control and victimization. These findings leave open the possibility that the two traits might covary because of previously unmeasured genetic factors. The current analysis seeks to test this possibility. Additionally, we examine whether the covariation between self-control and victimization persists once genetic effects are held constant. Our findings suggest a nuanced explanation for the relationship between self-control and experiences of victimization. © 2013 The Foundation for Professionals in Services for Adolescents.