testing informal social control theory: examining lewd behavior during mardi gras

This exploratory study extends Forsyth's research on lewd behavior during Mardi Gras by testing Sampson and Laub's (1993) theory of informal social control. Lewd Conduct at Mardi Gras is defined as the exposure of one's genitals, anus, vulva, or female breast nipples, or engaging in oral or penetrative sex in any public place open to the view of people. The overall findings do not support Sampson and Laub's theory of informal social control. Yet, significant findings did reveal that people who have high incidences of divorces and engagements are more likely to participate in lewd behavior during Mardi Gras. It is suggested that future researchers incorporate Forsyth's methodology by using qualitative research when studying lewd behavior during Mardi Gras.