Survey Design Issues in Studying Unstructured Socializing in Online and Offline Settings: Lessons Learned

• In Event: Routine Activities Theory and the Internet

Abstract

Research consistently documents the link between unstructured socializing and delinquency; however, the widespread use of digital technology raises questions about the routine activities of youth and where and how they spend their time with peers. We draw on three waves of data from middle school students to assess where youth spend their unstructured time. While our goal was to examine these associations with offline delinquency, theoretical and methodological issues related to the operationalization of unstructured socializing on social media lead us to question the validity of our results. We find that only changes in time spent outdoors with peers in the absence of authority figures is associated with changes in delinquency. We conclude by offering recommendations for those interested in unpacking various online and offline peer effects on adolescent behavior.

Authors

• Tim McCuddy, University of Memphis

• Matt Vogel, University at Albany, SUNY

• Steven F. Messner, University at Albany, SUNY