NCJ Number
244459
Journal
Sociological Spectrum Volume: 33 Issue: 6 Dated: November-December 2013 Pages: 554-565
Date Published
December 2013
Length
12 pages
Annotation
This research examines the correlation between viewing R-rated movies and drug and alcohol abuse.
Abstract
Previous research suggests viewing R-rated movies is associated with delinquency (Tanski et al. 2010; Titus-Ernstoff et al. 2008), while religiosity leads to decreases in substance use (Jang and Johnson 2001; Kovacs, Piko, and Fitzpatrick 2011; Miller 1998; Regnerus 2003). However, the influences of religiosity and viewing R-rated movies have not been examined in conjunction. This article tests whether religiosity moderates the effects of R-rated movies on delinquency, results suggesting that rather than religiosity moderating the effects of R-rated movies on delinquency, viewing R-rated movies actually tempers the pro-social effects of religiosity. This finding only held true for certain types of substance abuse, and not activity-based forms of delinquency such as fighting. The results are discussed in light of their implications for the current study of the effects of religiosity on delinquency, and suggestions are made for future research on the relationship between viewing R-rated movies and delinquency. Abstract published by arrangement with Taylor and Francis.