Eating Disorders and Future Criminality: Repercussions of Child Maltreatment across the Life-Course

• In Event: Marginalization, Strain, and Mental Health in Life-Course Criminology

Abstract

Research has shown that child maltreatment is a risk factor for eating disorders among adolescents; specifically, with regard to sexual abuse and neglect. Similarly, studies also display a link between child abuse and future delinquency. Despite this, there has been little empirical inquiry into the overarching impacts of developing eating disorders as a coping mechanism on future delinquency. The purpose of this paper, therefore, is to examine the relationships between child maltreatment, eating disorders, and future delinquency. This will be done using data from the 1994- 2002 National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health survey. The results will shed light on the relationship between eating disorder coping mechanisms and delinquency across the life-course.

Authors

• Madeline Astin, University of Arkansas at Little Rock

• Mary Hannah Hughes, University of Arkansas at Little Rock

• Molly Smith, University of Arkansas at Little Rock