Indicators of Problem Drinker-Drivers and DWI Recidivism Among the Youth and Reckless

• NCJ Number: 126381
• Author(s): T H Nochajski; B A Miller; W F Wieczorek
• Date Published: 1989
• Length: 2 pages
• Corporate Author: New York State
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/; NCJRS Photocopy Services
• Publication Type: Research (Applied/Empirical)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: The Problem-Drinker Driver Project

Annotation

This research note focuses on characteristics that separate young DWI (driving while intoxicated) problem drunk drivers from their older counterparts and that distinguish young, repeat offenders from young, first-time offenders.

Abstract

The sample consisted of 461 drivers referred to the Drinking Driver Evaluation and Treatment Program in Erie County between 1983 and 1985. The overall sample was divided into three age groups: 25 years old or younger, ages 26-35, and ages 36 or older. Variables encompassed demographics, criminal history, and alcohol-related variables. Findings suggest that there are variables that can help identify young problem-drinker drivers and recidivists among this group; however, the findings must be cautiously viewed. Although family history and education are apparently of particular use in categorizing recidivists for the younger group, the fact that some of the first-time offenders also responded affirmatively to the family history items and dropped out of high school indicates the limitations of these items. In spite of the data limitations, family history may still be useful for selecting out persons aged 25 and under for further evaluation. 1 table and 1 figure