Are Fluctuations in Delinquent Activities Related to the Onset and Offset in Juvenile Illegal Drug Use and Drug Dealing?

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The authors examine fluctuations in the type and rate of delinquency as a function of the onset, continuation, and discontinuation of illegal drug use and drug dealing. The study subjects included 506 urban adolescent males between the ages thirteen and fifteen, who were followed up over six half-yearly data waves. Previous involvement in property offenses increased the risk of the onset of illegal drug use, while previous involvement in both property and person-related offenses increased the risk of the onset of drug dealing. The onset of drug use or drug dealing was associated with an increase in person-related offenses and carrying a concealed weapon. Initiation of drug dealing was uniquely related to an increased frequency of property offenses, particularly car-related theft and fraud. Discontinuation of illegal drug use or drug dealing was associated with a decrease in delinquency.