The Effects of Gender and Bonds with Parents and Grandparents on Delinquency Among Chinese Adolescents

Abstract

This study examines the influences of bonds with parents and grandparents on delinquent participation among Chinese adolescents, and whether these effects may differ for adolescent boys and girls. Using data provided by over 2,300 middle school students from Fuzhou City, China, regression analyses yield results consistent with the hypotheses. Chinese teens who indicate that they are close to their parents and paternal grandparents report lower levels of delinquency; such effects are independent of each other and other putative common correlates. While the effects of bonds are consistent across domains of delinquency, the strongest appears on deceitful behavior, followed by aggression and substance use. Bonds with parents and paternal grandparents exert significant effects on the delinquency of boys; among girls, however, the effects are weaker or not statistically significant. These results are interpreted in light of social bond theory, parent and grandparent support in mainland China, and policy implications.