MPC Member Publications

This database contains a listing of population studies publications written by MPC Members. Anyone can add a publication by an MPC student, faculty, or staff member to this database; new citations will be reviewed and approved by MPC administrators.

Full Citation

Title: Settling Down and Aging Out: Toward an Interactionist Theory of Desistance and the Transition to Adulthood

Citation Type: Journal Article

Publication Year: 2010

Abstract: Conceptions of adulthood have changed dramatically in recent decades. Despite such changes, however, the notion that young people will eventually settle down and desist from delinquent behaviors is remarkably persistent. This article unites life course criminology with classic work on age norms and role behavior to contend that people who persist in delinquency will be less likely to view themselvesas adults and less likely to achieve the standard work andfamily markers of adulthood than others their age. Analysis of longitudinal survey data and intensive interview data supports this proposition, with both arrest and self-reported crime blocking the passage to adult status. The authors conclude that settling down or desisting from delinquency is an important part of the package ofrole behaviors that define adulthood in the contemporary United States.

User Submitted?: No

Authors: Massoglia, Michael; Uggen, Christopher

Periodical (Full): American Journal of Sociology

Issue:

Volume: 116

Pages: 543-582

Countries:

IPUMS NHGIS NAPP IHIS ATUS Terrapop