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The contextual nature of the family structure/delinquency relationship

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  • Kierkus, Christopher A.
  • Hewitt, John D.

Abstract

It is well established that growing up in a nontraditional family represents a risk factor for delinquent behavior; however, the understanding of whether this effect is universal remains imperfect. The present study examined whether the link between nontraditional family structure and delinquency varies according to six distinct circumstances: gender, race, age, SES, family size, and place of residence. Regression analysis of a nationally representative sample of adolescents between the ages of twelve and seventeen (n = 3,499) suggests that gender, race, SES, and place of residence do not condition the family structure/delinquency relationship. Significant interactions, however, were discovered with respect to age and family size. Generally, living in a nontraditional family is more criminogenic for older adolescents, and for those from larger families. The theoretical and practical implications of the findings are discussed.

Suggested Citation

  • Kierkus, Christopher A. & Hewitt, John D., 2009. "The contextual nature of the family structure/delinquency relationship," Journal of Criminal Justice, Elsevier, vol. 37(2), pages 123-132, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:jcjust:v:37:y::i:2:p:123-132
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    1. Zenaida Ravaneral & Hwa Young & Fernando Rajulton & Byung-Yup Cho, 1999. "Should a Second Demographic Transition Follow the First? Demographic Contrasts: Canada and South Korea," Social Indicators Research: An International and Interdisciplinary Journal for Quality-of-Life Measurement, Springer, vol. 47(1), pages 99-118, May.
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    Cited by:

    1. Han, Yoonsun & Kim, Seonyeong & Lee, Taekho & Kim, Suna, 2024. "Family factors and offline/online risk behaviors among South Korean adolescents: A multidimensional approach using latent profile analysis," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 156(C).
    2. Johanna Peterson & Dana DeHart & Emily Wright, 2019. "Examining the Impact of Victimization on Girls’ Delinquency: A Study of Direct and Indirect Effects," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 16(11), pages 1-13, May.

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