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Dissertation Information for Lisa Muftic

NAME:
- Lisa Muftic

DEGREE:
- Ph.D.

DISCIPLINE:
- Criminal Justice

SCHOOL:
- North Dakota State University (USA) (2006)

ADVISORS:
- None

COMMITTEE MEMBERS:
- None

MPACT Status: Incomplete - Not_Inspected

Title: Examining the methodological utility of macro-micro theoretical integration utilizing hierarchical linear statistical modeling

Abstract: The primary goal of the current study is to demonstrate the methodological utility of macro-micro theoretical integration. Traditionally, criminological theories have relied on either strictly macro- or micro-level variables in their theoretical propositions explaining the relationship between said variables and crime. While macro-level theories have typically relied on variables drawn from geographic units (i.e., nations, states, cities, or neighborhoods) to explain crime rates, micro-level theories have relied solely on individual characteristics to explain individual variation in crime and delinquency. Single level theories, however, have fallen short in their endeavor to explain crime and criminality. In response, criminologists have begun to advocate for the integration of theoretical arguments, including theoretical arguments made at differing levels (i.e., macro-micro theoretical integration).

In order to demonstrate the importance of multi-level theoretical integration, the current study uses a multi-level integrated theoretical framework to explicate the relationships among structural and individual level variables. The current study utilizes a hierarchical data set that contains two levels of data where micro-level data (169 students) are nested into macro-level data (23 nations). As such, the current study uses data in two formats. First, structural level variables are collected from aggregate data sources. Second, individual-level variables are gathered from self-reported student surveys. Multi-level variables are included from a variety of theoretical perspectives, including ecological, control, and strain theories. According to this macro-micro model, individual level characteristics (social bonds, adherence to cultural values, self-control, and strain) are expected to mediate the relationship between structural characteristics (economic strength, polity and social disorganization) and academic dishonesty. To demonstrate the utility of this model, hierarchical linear modeling (HLM) will be employed.

The theoretical relevance of the current study is the evidence it finds that accentuates the importance of the inclusion of individual and structural variables in theoretical models. Findings from the current study suggest the need to continue to explore the relationship between macro- and micro-level variables and crime and deviance. Although only partial support was found for the hypotheses proposed, the findings support the notion that multi-level statistical models may provide a richer, more complete explanation of crime and delinquency.

MPACT Scores for Lisa Muftic

A = 0
C = 2
A+C = 2
T = 0
G = 0
W = 0
TD = 0
TA = 0
calculated 2010-09-27 23:59:13

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