Parenthood and Identity Change along the Pathway to Desistance

• In Event: Identity, Life-Course Transitions, and Desistance

Abstract

Parenthood has long been considered a potential turning point in criminal careers, but has remained under-theorized in research to date. This research contributes to the literature by considering why parenthood may impact desistance outcomes. Utilizing data from the Pathways to Desistance study, we follow a prospective panel of serious juvenile offenders to examine the association between transitioning to parenthood and subsequent identity change relevant to desistance from offending. We consider differential effects of parenthood transition between men and women, as well as motivation/commitment to parenting. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.

Authors

• Rebecca Stone, Suffolk University

• Jason Rydberg, University of Massachusetts, Lowell