Citation

Kaplan HB. Soc. Sci. Med. (1967) 1972; 6(5): 593-617.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1972, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/0037-7856(72)90075-3

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

The outline of a general theory of psychosocial deviance is described. The core of the theory consists of two propositions. First, antecedent self-derogation increases the probability of subsequent adoption of modes of psychosocial deviance. Second, adoption of deviant patterns tends to decrease the degree of preexisting self-derogation. The emerging theoretical model is discussed with reference to studies relating to several specific modes of deviant behavior. A partial confirmation of the generality of the theory was provided by a consideration of the literature relating to agressive behavior. Two sets of propositions were discussed: those concerning the reciprocal relationship between self-attitudes and aggressive behavior; and, those dealing with influences toward the adoption of aggressive behavior patterns in particular given the general predisposition to adopt some form of deviant behavior.