DELINQUENT VALUES AND VICTIM DAMAGE: Exploring the Limits of Neutralization Theory

Using a multi-faceted approach to Sykes and Matza's neutralization theory, the main hypothesis is that techniques of neutralization are dependent on the possibility of ignoring the damage caused by delinquent acts. Factor analysis of the data from 2,699 respondents shows that the neutralization construct is multidimensional. Depending upon the victimized person and the nature of the damage caused, different forms of neutralizations are applied. When a delinquent act inflicts physical injury upon a familiar victim, delinquents are just as unpermissive as non-delinquents.