NCJ Number
118017
Journal
Sociological Spectrum Volume: 9 Issue: 2 Dated: (1989) Pages: 227-237
Date Published
1989
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This study presents evidence which supports the use of retrospective research designs to study the transition from delinquency to adult deviance.
Abstract
Delinquency rates based on adolescents' responses to the Richmond Youth Study in 1965 are compared to the rates based on retrospective accounts of delinquency provided by adults to the Epidemiologic Catchment Area Study in 1981-1982. These comparisons were enhanced by controlling for race, sex, birth cohort and the greater period at risk of delinquency experienced by the adult respondents. Results in comparing the rates of suspension or expulsion from school, truancy, fighting, drinking and theft reported by adults and adolescents are summarized. Findings suggest that adults are able to provide reliable accounts of their adolescent behavior. While adults' recall of an incident is quite reliable, reports of the age at which an incident occurred seem less accurate. Based on this study, future researchers who wish to use adult retrospective accounts of delinquency may do so with considerable confidence that these self-reports are valid or are at least consistent with the self-reports of adolescents. 9 references and 3 tables. (Author abstract modified)