Can general strain theory be used to explain recidivism among registered sex offenders?

PurposeThe purpose of the current study was to assess sex offender recidivism in the context of General Strain Theory (GST).MethodsSurveys were mailed to 3,506 sex offenders with (N = 939) in Nebraska, (N = 1,850) in Kansas and (N = 717) in Montana. Questions related to strain associated with registration and community notification, anger, depression, and criminal behavior were asked. OLS Regression was utilized to predict overall recidivism, as well as sex, violent, drug, and property recidivism.ResultsFindings suggest that GST is supported when analyzing recidivism.ConclusionsIn the context of these findings, policymakers would do well to reexamine the broad use of registration and community notification laws.