COMMITTEE CHAIR: Dr. Camille Gibson
TITLE: DEVIANT TRAJECTORIES OF BLACK GIRLS IN ADOLESCENT ROMANTIC RELATIONSHIPS
ABSTRACT: This quantitative study examined whether being involved in an adolescent romantic relationship as a Black female affected juvenile delinquency and criminal involvement. Prior research has examined intimate networks such as peers, family members, and romantic relationships to influence a person to engage in criminal activity and substance use. However, combining the intersectionality of being Black and female and the influence of adolescent romantic relationships have yet to be explored. To address this gap in literature, data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health was used to determine these effects. There data are from a nationally representative sample of adolescents in the United States starting in grades 7 through 12. It includes outcome information on the participants up to 24 to 32 years of age. The dataset contains variables related to peer networks, family life, romantic and sexual relationships, substance use, and criminal activities. Data were be analyzed using t-tests, multivariate statistics, and survival analyses. The results indicate that family conflict did not act as a major predictor for romantic relationship engagement. Further marijuana use, alcohol use, and property offenses were all significantly associated with romantic involvement. These results highlight the need to understand the complex interplay between adolescent romantic relationships and substance use. However, there was no significant relationship between adolescent romantic relationships and adult criminality, specifically regarding substance use. These findings indicate implications for girls, school personnel, parents, youth mentors, and advocates.
Room Location: Don Clark Room 362