Michelle Manasse

Rationalizing Delinquency A Longitudinal Test of the Reciprocal Relationship Between Delinquent Attitudes and Behavior

Multiple criminological theories predict that attitudes toward delinquency should affect an individual’s delinquent behavior. Criminological research, however, has not sufficiently incorporated social psychological theory predicting the reverse causal relationship, and tends to suffer from important methodological limitations. The present study addresses these issues using longitudinal data from the New Hampshire Youth Study (N = 626). After using latent variable models to demonstrate the discriminant validity of attitudinal and behavioral measures, it uses structural equation models to examine whether attitudes are stronger predictors of behavior or vice versa. Net of controls, results provide qualified support for a reciprocal relationship but suggest that behavior affects attitudes much more than attitudes affect behavior. We conclude by discussing the implications of these findings for future research and for interventions aimed at controlling delinquency.

When Screams Are Not Released: A Study of Communication and Consent in Acquaintance Rape Situations

This study examines the importance of modes of communication in the context of acquaintance rape, using 96 reported cases of acquaintance rape from a southeastern law enforcement agency. Through the demographic characteristics of each acquaintance rape, as well as the testimonies of the complainants and—in some cases—the accused, this research reveals the way in which victims communicate their responses to these attacks. A typology of modes of communication clearly emerges from these qualitative data. The patterns of communication further underscore the likelihood of passive responses, particularly the complete lack of communication when the victim “freezes.” The implications of such response modes are considered.

Soliciting strain: examining both sides of street prostitution through General Strain Theory

This article explores the possible factors contributing to prostitution through an exploration of Agnews General Strain Theory (GST) in a sample of current and former female prostitutes and a sample of male ‘johns.’ By understanding the factors that lead women to engage in prostitution along with the factors that lead men to solicit prostitution, a better understanding of the entire criminal interaction can be achieved. Furthermore, examining prostitution through an application of GST allows for a critical review of the theory through identifying strengths and weaknesses. Ultimately the study shows that both the men and women involved in prostitution experience strain, although different strains motivate their behaviors, and while their emotional and behavioral responses are different – the difference leads to participation in the same criminal event.

The Relationship between Scholarships and Student Success: An Art and Design Case Study

The majority of studies investigating financial predictors of student success in higher education focus on liberal art schools and have investigated a limited number of conditioning variables in analyses. This study adds to the literature by exploring financial predictors of student success through a unique sample of students from an art and design college and by considering a number of variable interactions. Institutional scholarships emerged as the strongest predictor of student persistence, progression, and timely graduation in all models explored. Standardized test scores interacted with scholarship dollars in unique ways. Findings suggest that high test scorers may be at risk in an art and design institution and that scholarship dollars may mitigate this risk.