low-self control

Low self-control, in sociology, refers to an individual's tendency to act impulsively, be insensitive to others, prefer physical over mental activities, take risks, and focus on short-term gratification. This characteristic is believed to develop in early childhood due to parental child-rearing practices and remains relatively stable throughout life.1

Sociological theories suggest that low self-control is a primary internal restraint against engaging in criminal behavior. People with low self-control are more likely to commit crimes because they lack these internal controls. While self-control is an internal factor, sociological theories generally posit that criminal behavior arises from social circumstances and learned behaviors, rather than solely from individual pathology. Research indicates that while official crime statistics may disproportionately represent lower-class offenders, offenses are widespread across all social strata.123