Parent—Child Conflicts, School Troubles, and Differences in Delinquency Across Immigration Generations

Abstract

This study examines delinquent behavior among schoolchildren in a nationally representative sample from the United States and seeks an understanding of the factors contributing to variances in delinquency across immigration generations. Data analysis indicates that the levels of self-reported substance use, property delinquency, and violent delinquency among first-generation students are significantly lower than those among students from later immigration generations. These differences are explained in part by family relationships and school bonding, particularly parent—child conflicts and school troubles that increase with later immigration generations. These findings suggest that there are negative effects of acculturation on family and school processes, which in turn affect delinquency.