ARE FLUCTUATIONS IN DELINQUENT ACTIVITIES RELATED TO THE ONSET AND OFFSET IN JUVENILE ILLEGAL DRUG-USE AND DRUG DEALING

The authors examine fluctuations in the type and rate of delinquency a s a function of the onset, continuation, and discontinuation of illega l drug use and drug dealing. The study subjects included 506 urban ado lescent males between the ages thirteen and fifteen, who were followed up over six half-yearly data waves. Previous involvement in property offenses increased the risk of the onset of illegal drug use, while pr evious involvement in both property and person-related offenses increa sed the risk of the onset of drug dealing. The onset of drug use br dr ug dealing was associated with an increase in person-related offenses and carrying a concealed weapon. Initiation of drug dealing was unique ly related to an increased frequency of property offenses, particularl y car-related theft and fraud. Discontinuation of illegal drug use or drug dealing was associated with a decrease in delinquency.