Citation
Reynolds, Andrew (2014). Parental monitoring, structure, self-esteem, school connection, and network position as moderators of peer contagion of delinquency.
2014 Add Health Users Confrence. Bethesda, MD.
Abstract
While previous research has demonstrated that adolescents are influenced by the behavior of their peers, less is known about moderators of this influence (Dishion & Tipsord, 2011). Using in-home and in-school questionnaire as well as social network data from Waves I and II of Add Health, this study examines the following moderators of delinquency contagion: parental monitoring, structure, self-esteem, connection, and social network position. Three hypotheses were tested: First, adolescents with higher levels of parental monitoring and structure are less vulnerable to delinquency contagion. Second, adolescents with higher levels of self-esteem and connection to the school environment are more resilient to the influence of peer delinquent behaviors. Third, higher status and popular adolescents are at greater risk for peer contagion. Additionally, three-way interactions were tested to examine how moderators may function differently by gender. Longitudinal models using generalized estimating equation (GEE) procedures were used to examine relationships between ego and alter depression scores and study moderators. Social network analysis was conducted using Pajek and UCINET. Preliminary analyses provide support for study hypotheses, controlling for selection effects (homophily) and contextual factors. Results highlight pathways for interventions to promote resilience and to reduce the potential negative effects of peer contagion. Implications for policy and research are discussed.
URL
https://addhealth.cpc.unc.edu/wp-content/uploads/docs/events/20140613_Add_Health_Users_Conference_Abstracts.pdfReference Type
Conference proceeding
Book Title
2014 Add Health Users Confrence
Author(s)
Reynolds, Andrew
Year Published
2014
City of Publication
Bethesda, MD
Reference ID
6229