Peer Networks and Latino/a Delinquency: Directions for Future Research

• In Event: Peers and Crime: Recent Advances and Future Directions

Abstract

Prior research has sought to identify the mechanisms by which generational status and acculturation impact crime and delinquency among Latino/as. Studies have examined a number of theoretical constructs in an effort to better understand differences in offending between the foreign and native born, including self-control, delinquent peers, and social bonding. While each of these have shown the ability to partially mediate the effect of generational status on offending, there still remains much unknown about how other contextual variables may better explain these differences. Using the Add Health dataset, a nationally representative and longitudinal study of American adolescents, this study assesses the role of peer and network variables on offending among Latino/as. Findings are presented within the context of the extant literature and discussion is oriented around direction and suggestions for future research.

Author

• Holly Ventura Miller, University of North Florida