Examining the Direct and Indirect Effects of Pregnancy Intention on Early Delinquency

• In Event: Parenting and Juvenile Delinquency

Abstract

Research on the effects of pregnancy intention on life outcomes for offspring is mixed. Some research suggests that there is no link, while other research has found that there may be direct and/or indirect effects on offspring development. Using Fragile Families, the current study will examine the impact of pregnancy intention on early juvenile delinquency. More specifically, I will be focusing on how being born as a result of an unintended pregnancy impacts nine-year olds involvement in delinquent behaviors compared to those who were born intentionally. The goal is to determine if pregnancy intention directly or indirectly, through parental attachment and involvement, impacts early initiation of juvenile delinquency.

Author

• Julia Mack, Gannon University