Dating Violence Victimization and Substance Use: Do Genes Play a Role?

• In Event: Differential Processes Linking Strain and Crime

Abstract

Dating violence (DV) victimization in adolescence has been shown to be predictive of both negative emotions and delinquent behavior later in life. However, research that delves into DV victimization and subsequent outcomes, such as deviant behavior, is largely atheoretical. Robert Agnew’s general strain theory (GST) provides a theoretical framework to address this limitation. In focusing on negative interactions with others, the theory posits that strain produces negative affect states which lead to deviant or criminal coping. Prior research has identified victimization as a strain, a type of noxious stimuli, which is significantly related to negative emotionality, crime, and deviance. We build on this literature by examining the relationship between dating violence victimization, negative emotionality, and substance use. In addition, little research to date has examined the role that biological factors play in moderating these relationships. Using the National Longitudinal Survey of Adolescent Health, and drawing on two separate, but related, theories, we explore whether the serotonin transporter gene (5-HTTLPR) interacts with dating violence victimization to affect depressive symptoms and self-reported substance use. We estimate regression models separately for males and females. Overall, logistic regressions reveal significant results.

Authors

• Alexis Yohros, University of Central Florida

• Jason Ford, University of Central Florida