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Substance abuse and criminal recidivism: A prospective study of adolescents CHILD PSYCHIATRY & HUMAN DEVELOPMENT Wilson, J. J., Rojas, N., Haapanen, R., Duxbury, E., Steiner, H. 2001; 31 (4): 297-312

Abstract

Studies of substance abuse among delinquents have shown mixed results on criminal recidivism. The present study evaluates personality traits associated with substance abuse and recidivism among delinquent boys, and prospectively determines the extent to which these factors are predictive of criminal recidivism. 134 incarcerated boys (x = 15.9 +/- 1.1) completed the Weinberger Adjustment Inventory and the Substance Abuse Screening Inventory. Youth were prospectively followed for up to 4.5 years following release. Among incarcerated delinquents, personality traits are predictive of a positive substance abuse screen and recidivism. A trend indicating a possible interaction between personality and treatment is observed. If these findings are replicated, personality traits may play a role in predicting substance abuse as well as individual delinquent responses to treatment.

View details for Web of Science ID 000166878000003

View details for PubMedID 11227989