Click on the following links. Please note these will open in a new window.

Journal Article 1:

Citation: Vaughn, M. G., Wallace, Jr., J. M., Davis, L. E., Fernandes, G. T., & Howard, M. O. (2007). Variations in mental health problems, substance use, and delinquency between African American and Caucasian juvenile offenders: Implications for reentry services. Internal Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology, 52(3), 311–329.

Abstract: The incarceration of young people is a growing national problem. Key correlates of incarceration among American youth include mental health problems, substance use, and delinquency. The present study uses a statewide sample of incarcerated youth to examine racial differences in African American and Caucasian juvenile offenders’ outcomes related to mental health, substance use, and delinquency. The data indicate that relative to Caucasian offenders, African American offenders report lower levels of mental health problems and substance use but higher levels of delinquent behavior such as violence, weapon carrying, and gang fighting. The data further reveal that African American offenders are more likely than Caucasian offenders to be victims of violence and to experience traumatic events such as witnessing injury and death. Recognition of these patterns may help to improve post release services by tailoring or adapting preexisting programs to patterns of risk factors and their relative magnitudes of effect.

Journal Article 2:

Citation: White, N. A., & Loeber, R. (2008). Bullying and special education as predictors of serious delinquency. Journal of Research in Crime and Delinquency, 45(4), 380–397.

Abstract: Bullying can create a climate of fear and discomfort in schools and communities. This study examined the longitudinal associations between children’s bullying, special education placements in elementary school, and serious delinquent behavior during secondary school. Using data from the youngest sample of the Pittsburgh Youth Study, the authors examined these associations while controlling for prior poor academic achievement and aggression. They found that contrary to prior research, neither special education placements nor poor academic achievement predicted bullying or serious delinquency. They found substantial continuity between early aggression and special education placements, bullying, and serious delinquency. They discuss the implications of our finding for future research and policy development.