NCJ Number
231780
Journal
Journal of Crime and Justice Volume: 33 Issue: 1 Dated: 2010 Pages: 97-116
Date Published
2010
Length
20 pages
Annotation
An argument is presented that adolescent peers can and do influence each other's behavior in conforming directions.
Abstract
The focus in criminological research on the influence of delinquent peers on delinquency has led the field to almost entirely ignore the influence of conforming peers on conformity. This paper is a first step in correcting this oversight by applying a control theory perspective to the peer effect, arguing that just as delinquent peers seem to increase the individual's delinquency, conforming peers also play a role in reducing or preventing delinquency in the individual. Existing evidence of positive influence from peers is reviewed, and although the issue has not been widely studies, there is evidence that positive peer influence is fairly common and worth greater attention in criminology. Several hypotheses are presented, and it is suggested that future research include measures of positive peer influence as well as peer influence toward delinquency. Notes and references (Published Abstract)