Rational Framework of Decisions on Deviant Behaviors: A Sociological Case Study of Urumieh University Students

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Abstract

This study examines the relationship between rational frameworks of decisions and deviant behaviors among students of Urumieh University. Results from a questionnaire-based survey of 441 students (randomly selected in the academic year 2008-2009) are employed. According to the results of our regression analysis, among rational choice variables, opportunity, utilitarian need, and thrills have positive and significant relations with deviant behaviors; the relation between students’ moral beliefs and the dependent variable is negative and significant. Furthermore, utilitarian need is highlighted as most important in explaining deviant behaviors. Furthermore, utilitarian need is highlighted as most important in explaining deviant behaviors. Furthermore, utilitarian need is highlighted as most important in explaining deviant behaviors.

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