| This project focuses on the influence of peers in explaining changes in delinquent behavior through adolescence. The relationship between delinquent peers and one s own delinquent behavior has long been recognized. Although this relationship has been supported in several studies (Patterson & Dishion, 1985; Elliot & Menard, 1996; Cairns & Cairns, 1994; Dishion, 1996; Matsueda & Anderson, 1998; Warr, 2002; Weerman, 2004), the meaning and interpretation is still much debated. Many researchers have suggested that delinquent peer associations foster delinquent behavior. Moreover, it is argued that peers are a potential key to understand the etiology of delinquent behavior (Sutherland, 147; Akers, 1973; Warr, 2002). Rather than placing peers at the core of causal explanations, Gottfredson and Hirschi (1991) for example join Glueck and Glueck (1950) in suggesting the relationship can be explained by a process of social selection. Longitudinal self-report data is used in this study to analyze the changes in time spent with peers and delinquency during adolescence. Respondents are questioned among other things about delinquent behavior and time spent with peers. Furthermore, self-reports of parents and best friend will be used. Four measurements a year enable us to represent the changes over time more accurately. This research project addresses several questions: What is the relative influence of peers in explaining gender differences in delinquent behavior in (early) adolescence? How is parental control related to the association with (delinquent) peers and delinquent behavior of adolescents? Are changes in time spent with peers related to changes in delinquent behavior? To what extent are there changes in the part peers play in co-offending? |
