Generational Differences in Serious Physical Violence Among Hispanic Adolescents

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study is (a) to evaluate the predictors of serious physical violence among Hispanics using a longitudinal, nationally representative sample of adolescents, and (b) to evaluate the effects of multiple levels of influence (generational differences, individual-level characteristics, and contextual variables) on serious violence during adolescence. Method: Data were derived from 4,786 Hispanic adolescents surveyed for the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (Add Health). Survey logistic regression procedures were used to examine the independent effect of generation, including multilevel risk and protective factors, on serious physical violence. Results: 3rd generation U.S.-born adolescents were 75% more likely to be violent 1 year later ( OR = 1.75; p < .05), independent of various risk and protective factors contextual effects (parental involvement, parental alcohol use, neighborhood safety), demographics (age, gender), individual-level risk and protective factors (alcohol use, marijuana use), and baseline violence. Conclusions: Generational differences exist in serious physical violence, and 3rd generation and beyond adolescents are at greater risk of violent behavior. Violence prevention strategies should focus on the retention of family bonds and cultural values of the host country in prevention programming, and generational status should be taken into account to reduce participation in violence among Hispanic youth.