Understanding Latino Delinquency: The Applicability of Strain Theory by Ethnicity (Criminal Justice Recent Scholarship)

Perez McCluskey explores the application of traditional strain theory across multiple ethnic groups. Using data from the Denver Youth Survey and the Rochester Youth Development Study she tests strain theory across two separate Latino groups and their white and African American counterparts. For the most part, strain theory is supported when males are examined collectively. However, when ethnic groups are examined individually, differences emerge. Strain theory does not explain Latino delinquency as well as it does that of other groups. One notable difference is the influence of delinquent friends: Latino attitudes and delinquent behavior are least affected by peers.