The Jack-Roller

The Jack-Roller is a term from sociology that describes a method used in research to study individuals who engage in delinquent behaviors. It originates from a study conducted by sociologist Clifford Shaw in the 1930s. The term refers to a youth, typically from a disadvantaged background, who alternates between crime ("jack") and periods of normalcy ("roller"). Shaw used in-depth interviews to understand the life experiences and social environments that influenced their behaviors. This approach aimed to reveal the complexities of delinquency, emphasizing the role of social factors in shaping individual choices.