NCJ Number
186171
Journal
Sociological Inquiry Volume: 70 Issue: 4 Dated: Fall 2000 Pages: 391-419
Editor(s)
Sampson L. Blair
Date Published
2000
Length
29 pages
Annotation
Prior research indicates that increases in both black and white juvenile homicide rates since 1970 may be due, in part to changes in the structure of the economy and the family during the 1970 to 1990 period.
Abstract
This study investigates the concept that a decline in the manufacturing base of cities (blue-collar work) increased the rates of female-headed families and indirectly raised homicide rates. The results of the study offered partial support to this general thesis. The findings suggest that a decline in the availability of stable, well paying jobs in the manufacturing sector increased juvenile homicide rates indirectly. As the percentage of jobs in the manufacturing sector decreased, economic deprivation increased for both black and whites. And, the increase in economic deprivation elevated rates of female-headed families, which is associated with the change in black juvenile homicide rates. However, no direct association between the change in family structure and the change in juvenile homicide is found for whites. Rather, the change in white juvenile homicide rates is directly related to changes in white economic deprivation. Looking at policy, the findings suggest that attempts to reduce lethal violence in city communities should focus on improving economic opportunity and promoting the economic and social importance of two-parent families, especially among inner-city blacks. Tables, appendices, endnotes, references