@article{ref1,
title="The contextual nature of the family structure/delinquency relationship",
journal="Journal of criminal justice",
year="2009",
author="Kierkus, Christopher A. and Hewitt, John D.",
volume="37",
number="2",
pages="123-132",
abstract="It is well established that growing up in a nontraditional family represents a risk factor for delinquent behavior; however, the understanding of whether this effect is universal remains imperfect. The present study examined whether the link between nontraditional family structure and delinquency varies according to six distinct circumstances: gender, race, age, SES, family size, and place of residence. Regression analysis of a nationally representative sample of adolescents between the ages of twelve and seventeen (n=3,499) suggests that gender, race, SES, and place of residence do not condition the family structure/delinquency relationship. Significant interactions, however, were discovered with respect to age and family size. Generally, living in a nontraditional family is more criminogenic for older adolescents, and for those from larger families. The theoretical and practical implications of the findings are discussed.<p />",
language="",
issn="0047-2352",
doi="10.1016/j.jcrimjus.2009.02.008",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jcrimjus.2009.02.008"
}