Criminality Among Female Drug Users Following an HIV Risk-Reduction Intervention

• NCJ Number: 229765
• Journal: Journal of Interpersonal Violence Volume: 22 Issue: 1 Dated: January 2007 Pages: 85-107
• Author(s): Katherine P. Theall; Kirk W. Elifson; Claire E. Sterk; Eric A. Stewart
• Date Published: January 2007
• Length: 23 pages
• Grant Number(s): R01 DA-10642
• Sponsoring Agency: National Institute on Drug Abuse; Emory Ctr for AIDS Research
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Research (Applied/Empirical)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study examined the prevalence of criminality among female African-American drug users and change in criminality over time.

Abstract

The main objectives of this article are to determine the prevalence of criminality among a sample of female African-American drug users and to examine change in criminality over time, including the correlates associated with this change. Data were collected from 336 adult women who participated in an HIV risk-reduction intervention focused on the context of the women's daily life. Face-to-face structured interviews were conducted at baseline, prior to enrolling in the intervention, and at follow-up, 6 months after completion of the intervention. Bivariate and correlated multivariate methods were utilized to examine changes in criminality and other behaviors over time. Both violent and nonviolent criminality declined significantly between baseline and follow-up assessments. Of the correlates considered, drug-using characteristics and victimization played the greatest role in explaining the decrease in criminality. Low self-control and depressive symptoms also contributed to the reduction in criminality. The findings suggest the importance of considering individual characteristics that may influence the women's criminal behavior as well as the impact of their routine activities. Tables, note, and references (Published Abstract)