Using Negative Cases to Evaluate Life Course Theories

• In Event: Posters II

Abstract

Significant empirical effort has been aimed at testing theoretical propositions explicated by life course theories of offending, yet theoretical refinement and advancement have waned. In an effort to invigorate theoretical discourse in life course criminology, we turn to the analysis of negative cases as “a useful mechanism for refining and extending a given [life course criminology] perspective” (Giordano, 1989: 278). We begin by using a point of commonality – the important role of childhood risk in predicting offending trajectories over time – and examine the cases that diverge from expectations. In short, what accounts for individuals who display a high risk for offending in childhood but exhibit limited or no offending in later life? Conversely, what accounts for individuals at low childhood risk who go on to have a high or persistent rate of offending? Using rich interview and criminal history data from the Woodlawn community cohort of disadvantaged African American men and women with life course information spanning more than 35 years, we identify the prevalence of these negative cases as well as provide an in-depth analysis of their adult lives. These analyses draw attention to the potential for negative cases to provide theoretical insights for life course criminology.

Authors

• Elaine Eggleston Doherty, University of Missouri - St. Louis

• Bianca Bersani, University of Massachusetts Boston