Pathways to Life Course Criminal Behavior- Traits in the Social Process

Studies have identified both stability and change in criminal behavior acrosstime. While most youth mature out of delinquency in their late teens andearly adulthood some juvenile delinquents persist in their criminal behaviorwith increased frequency and severity. Researchers are often confronted withthis question: Why will some youth continue their criminal behavior overtime when the majority of their peers have made the transition to conformity?''Based on a longitudinal sample of previously institutionalized youththis work examines and tests alternative perspectives on life course persistentcriminal behavior. Findings of this work highlight several important factorsthat affect persistent criminal behavior. Demographic differences in pathwaysto persistent criminal behavior such as gender and race variations are alsodiscussed. The book is addressed to researchers and students in JuvenileDelinquency Criminology and Sociology. It is also directed towards professionalsin Criminal Justice Corrections and Social Work.