Solo-Offending Versus Co-Offending: Peer and Adult Influence in Various Countries

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Abstract

According to differential association theory, deviant behavior is learned through interactions with others (Sutherland 1947; Burgess and Akers 1966). The closer the relationship, the more likely an individual is influenced by the actions of another. Often times, individuals learn deviant behavior from deviant peers. This paper aims to address adult influence with regards to learning deviant behavior. Using data from the Second International Self-Reported Delinquency Study, 2005-2007, I examine different patterns of offending in different countries. I test the relationship among solo-offending, peer offending, and adult offending in countries with high and low self-reported delinquency. The countries included in the study are the United States, Ireland, Austria, the Netherlands, Norway, and Denmark. I examine solo-offending, peer offending, and adult offending among adolescents in these different countries and with different types of self-reported deviant behavior. Preliminary results indicate that solo and peer offending is more common across all countries but a significant number of youth report co-offending with adults.

Author

• Katherine Newton, University of Akron