Citation

Christoffersen MN, Soothill K, Francis B. J. Subst. Abuse Treat. 2008; 34(4): 415-425.

Affiliation

The Danish National Institute of Social Research, DK-1052 Kobenhavn K, Denmark.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2008, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.jsat.2007.07.005

PMID

18329224

Abstract

Using a complete birth cohort of all young men born in 1966 in Denmark (N = 43,403), the prevalence of a first-time drink-driving conviction among young men is estimated. More than 7% of the total male birth cohort was so convicted before the age of 27 years. In an examination of risk factors for a first-time drink-driving conviction, young adults coming from potentially vulnerable groups have an increased risk. Earlier criminal convictions of various types were also significant predictors of drink driving. Situational pressures also play a part and are controlled for, with the risk of a drink-driving conviction increased substantially in rural areas compared to metropolitan areas. The study concludes that disadvantages during adolescence, including parental substance abuse, having a teenage mother, and domestic violence, are associated with a first-time drink-driving conviction.

Language: en