Peer influence processes for youth delinquency and depression. (10th June 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Reynolds, Andrew D.; Crea, Thomas M.
• Is Part Of: Journal of adolescence. Volume 43(2015:Aug.)
• Page Start: 83
• Page End: 95
• Publication Date: 2015-06-10
• Subjects: Peers -- Social networks -- Delinquency -- Depression -- Network analysis -- Peer influence; Adolescent psychiatry -- Periodicals; Adolescent psychology -- Periodicals; Adolescence -- Periodicals; Electronic journals; 305.23505
• DOI: 10.1016/j.adolescence.2015.05.013
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0140-1971

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This study explores the multiple factors that account for peer influence processes of adolescent delinquency and depression using data from Waves I and II of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health (Add Health). Random‐effects longitudinal negative binomial models were used to predict depression and delinquency, controlling for social connection variables to account for selection bias. Findings suggest peer depression and delinquency are both predictive of youth delinquency, while peer influences of depression are much more modest. Youth who are more connected to parents and communities and who are more popular within their networks are more susceptible to peer influence, while self‐regulating youth are less susceptible. We find support for theories of popularity‐socialization as well as weak‐ties in explaining social network factors that amplify or constrain peer influence. We argue that practitioners working with youth should consider network‐informed interventions to improve program efficacy and avoid iatrogenic effects.