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The differential influence of absent and harsh fathers on juvenile delinquency
Simmons, Cortney Steinberg, laurence Frick, Paul Cauffman, Elizabeth
Simmons, Cortney
Steinberg, laurence
Frick, Paul
Cauffman, Elizabeth
Abstract
Researchers have identified father absence as a contributor to juvenile delinquency. Consequently, politicians and community leaders are making efforts to re-engage fathers. However, it is possible that the presence of fathers is not, in itself, a substantial protective factor and, in some cases, can even be more detrimental than father absence. Employing a diverse sample of male juvenile offenders in the U.S. (ages 13–17), the present study examined the differential effects of absent fathers and harsh fathers on delinquency. Results indicated that youth in the harsh-father group engaged in more offending behaviors and used more substances than youth in the absent-father group. This difference remained even after controlling for the mother-child relationship. Implications of these findings for future research and delinquency prevention programs are discussed.
Keywords
Date
2018
Type
Journal article
Journal
Journal of Adolescence
Book
Volume
62
Issue
Page Range
9-17
Article Number
ACU Department
Institute for Learning Sciences and Teacher Education (ILSTE)
Faculty of Education and Arts
Faculty of Education and Arts
Relation URI
Source URL
Event URL
Open Access Status
License
File Access
Controlled