An Empirical Examination of the Construct Validity of Two Alternative Self-Control Measures

Abstract

The present study contrasts a newly developed measure of self-control as outlined in the General Theory of Crime, the Retrospective Behavioral Self-Control scale (RBS), with the most widespread measure of this construct. The RBS is based exclusively on an assessment of prior behavior with possible long-term negative consequences for the actor, whereas the latter scale is an example of attitudinal measures based on a listing of specific personality traits. By means of confirmatory factor analysis, it is demonstrated that the RBS measured the intended general factor of behavior across three samples, whereas the Grasmick et al. scale did not (only administered in one sample). In addition, the nomological net of self-control is explored by relating both instruments to a comprehensive battery of psychological tests and behavioral indicators. The RBS is included as an appendix.