Self-Control Theory and The Office: “That’s What She Said”: Michael Scott and Self-Control Theory

Gottfredson and Hirschi’s (1990) self-control theory is perhaps one of the most parsimonious, yet debated, criminological theories. Researchers have applied the theory to several deviant behaviors, and it also addresses the issue of behaviors analogous to crime. Using the Grasmick scale (Grasmick, Tittle, Bursik, & Arneklev, Journal of Research in Crime and Delinquency, 30, 5–29, 1993) with Higgins’ (Criminal Justice and Behavior, 34(2), 157–178, 2007) revisions, this chapter aims to demonstrate specific behaviors that measure individual levels of self-control. Michael Scott of NBC’s The Office often engages in behaviors that reflect the six constructs of the scale: impulsivity, simple tasks, risk-seeking, physical activities, self-control, and temper. Though his actions often led to feelings of frustration, irritation, and anger among his employees, Michael’s hijinks kept viewers enthralled for seven seasons and made the show one of the most iconic in history.