Violent Behavior, Substance Use, and Other Delinquent Behaviors among Middle and High School Students

Abstract

Although many studies suggest that substance use and other delinquent or problem behaviors are related to youthful violence, few have assessed the unique contribution of each of these behaviors, and many have restricted their samples to high school students, neglecting middle school students. Findings obtained from multiple regression analysis of a statewide survey of both middle and high school students indicate that after other relevant variables (e.g., gender) were controlled, substance use, other nonviolent delinquent behaviors, and gang involvement were all about equally useful in explaining violent behavior among middle school students. However, among high school students, gang involvement was more useful than either substance use or other nonviolent delinquent behaviors. The findings would argue that although violence prevention efforts targeted at middle school students should stress an approach that addresses multiple problem behaviors, the deterrence of gang involvement should be emphasized in those efforts designed for high school students.