This study aims to examine the association between self-control, family practices and delinquent behaviors among Brazilian adolescents using a person-centered approach.
Following the International Self-Reported Delinquency Study standardized protocol, data came from 1,909 adolescents between 13 and 17 years (female = 49.6%, male = 48.3%, non-binary = 2.1% and mean age = 15) attending public and private schools of two cities in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. Participants were grouped according to their scores in impulsivity and sensation-seeking. Clusters were characterized and compared regarding sociodemographic variables, family aspects (family bond and parental monitoring) and self-reported delinquency.
Analysis resulted in four groups characterized by: low impulsivity and low sensation-seeking (High Self-controlled; n = 564), high impulsivity and high sensation-seeking (Low Self-controlled; n = 378), high impulsivity and low sensation-seeking (Impulsives; n = 452) and low impulsivity and high sensation-seeking (Sensation-seekers; n = 475). High Self-controlled scored higher in family bonding and parental monitoring than the other three groups. Low Self-controlled reported the highest offense rates, followed by the Sensation-seekers, who scored more than Low Self-controlled and Impulsives.
This person-centered approach reveals individual differences in self-control, highlighting subgroup homogeneity and associations with parenting practices and delinquency. The findings of this study contribute theoretically to refining the General Theory of Crime and practically by guiding targeted interventions. This study underscores that sensation-seeking may influence delinquency more than impulsivity and suggests parental monitoring and bonding are key in shaping adolescents’ self-control.
