Aggressive Behavior in Male Offenders: Preliminary Analyses of Self-Regulatory Functions in a Sample of Criminals

Abstract

The functional role of self-regulation in aggressive and violent behavior continues to be an important problem in the forensic field. Theoretically, self-regulatory functions should influence other dimensions known to be related to aggressive behavior, but as of yet there is no empirical test of this assumption. Emotional self-regulation, conflict behavior, behavioral resources, and personality disorders were examined in a sample of 70 offenders with respect to the role that self-regulatory variables play in aggressive behavior. Although substantial correlations between self-regulator functions and aggressive behavior were found, these variables did not predict aggression in a subsequent regression analysis. Implications of the findings are discussed and put into relation with treatment issues of aggressive offenders.