Includes bibliographical references (pages 237-261) and index.

"Modern control theory and the limits of the criminal sanction updates and extends the authors' classic general theory of crime (sometimes referred to as "self-control theory"). In Part I, contemporary evidence about the theory is summarized. Research from criminology, psychology, economics, education and public health substantially supports the life-long influence of self control as a significant cause of problem behaviors, including delinquency and crime, substance abuse, school problems, many forms of accidents, employment instability and many poor health outcomes. Contemporary is supportive of the theory's focus on early socialization for creation of higher levels of self control and other dimensions of the theory, including the roles of self control, age and the generality or versatility of problem behaviors, as well as the connections between self control and later teen and adult problem behaviors. The authors provide methodological assessments of research on the theory, contrasting the control-theory perspective with other developmental perspectives in criminology. The role of opportunity, the relationship between self and social control theory, and the role of motivation, are addressed. In Part II, control theory is taken to be a valid theory and is used to explore the role of criminal sanctions, especially policing and prisons, and policies about immigration, as methods to impact crime. Modern control theory provides an explanation for the general lack of effectiveness of formal, state sanctions on crime and instead provides substantial justification for prevention of delinquency and crime by a focus on childhood"-- Provided by publisher.