NCJ Number
107401
Journal
Journal of Quantitative Criminology Volume: 3 Issue: 2 Dated: (June 1987) Pages: 103-124
Date Published
1987
Length
22 pages
Annotation
This paper uses latent structure analysis to develop a model of delinquency based on a set of frequently used indicators of illegal behavior.
Abstract
The paper also reviews other methods, including Guttman scaling and factor analytic procedures, as similar efforts to identify observed variables that may act as indicators of a latent (unobserved or unobservable) variable, delinquency. The basic mathematical properties of the latent structure model are presented and applied to a set of six self-report measures: small, medium, and major thefts; property destruction; physical fights; and car theft. The resulting latent variable of delinquency is found to be correlated with three categories: conformist, moderatley delinquent, and seriously delinquent. The external validity of the latent variable is also demonstrated in a comparative analysis of an additive scale of delinquency and the latent class measure of delinquency. The latent class measure provides a considerable increase in the magnitude of association with such commonly studied correlates as attachment, peer delinquency, and instrumental attitudes toward the law. Figure, tables, and 27 references. (Author abstract modified)