Exploring the role of additive effects of turning points in desistance

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Abstract

Turning points typically do not occur in isolation. When individuals reach adulthood, they often acquire multiple responsibilities simultaneously, such as graduating from college and securing full time employment. Yet, the majority of research on Sampson and Laub’s (1993; 2003) theory focuses on a single turning point and its effect on desistance, without considering how multiple turning points may function together in desistance. This lack of research examining the additive effect of multiple turning points on desistance demonstrates the need to empirically analyze this concept. Using Monitoring the Future Restricted-Use Panel data, this study examines whether experiencing multiple turning points around the same time in adulthood has an additive effect on desistance. I assess whether an increasing number of turning points experienced (i.e., marriage, military service, education, children) corresponds to an increasing likelihood of desistance from substance use up to age 40. Utilizing multilevel modeling, I examine whether there are variations in substance use for individuals who have experienced more turning points compared to individuals who have not experienced any. I also assess if a specific combination of turning points, such as getting married and having children, increases the likelihood of desistance. Results and directions for future research will be discussed.

Author

• Sarah Kirk, University of Missouri-St. Louis