Graduation Term

2023

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Department of Criminal Justice Sciences

Committee Chair

BRENT BT TEASDALE

Abstract

The topic of immigration remains a highly debated issue, particularly in light of rising worldwide migration and its potential impacts on crime rates. This study aims to investigate the association between immigration and recidivism among juveniles and the mediating effects of acculturation, moral disengagement, employment, and involvement in community activities on recidivism. The data for this study is drawn from the Pathways to Desistance study of serious adolescent offenders. It follows approximately 1354 serious adolescent offenders, of which 210 are second-generation and 83 are first-generation immigrants. Recidivism was measured using a period of twelve months. Findings indicated that second-generation immigrants were more likely to recidivate than first-generation immigrants, which is consistent with prior research. Results from logistics regression analysis did not show a significant relationship between the mediating variables and self-reported offending. Overall, efforts should be made to better understand the factors contributing to the higher likelihood of criminal behavior among second-generation immigrants.

Access Type

Thesis-Open Access

DOI

https://doi.org/10.30707/ETD2023.20240124055108222847.999981

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