Testing Theoretical Models with Reciprocal Effects of Drug Use Among Boot Camp Participants Using a Developmental Perspective

Abstract

This was a study of 601 participants in the only boot camp in Arkansas, the purpose of which was to test two theoretical models composed of elements from control and social learning theories based on developmental perspectives. The hypothesized differences in the two theoretical models were: (a) it was hypothesized that religiosity and beliefs were the significant influences on peer associations and that both factors have reciprocal relationships with these associations, that there was a reciprocal relationship between peer association and alienation, and a bi-directional relationship between alienation and drug use among older offenders (aged 24 years or older); and (b) it was hypothesized that attachment to mother and physical abuse were the primary influences on peer association, that there was a reciprocal relationship between peer association and excuses, and a bi-directional relationship between excuses and drug use among younger offenders (aged 23 years or younger).Evidence indicates that the feedback effects of drug use on alienation or excuses were not significant, and beliefs did not influence peer associations among older offenders. Otherwise, the hypothesized theoretical models for the two age groups were supported, with the exception that drug use did not affect carrying a gun among older offenders, and did have a reciprocal relationship with selling drugs for both age groups. Practice implications were discussed.