Alcohol, cocaine, and criminality: Specifying an interaction effect model

Journal/Book: J Crim Justice. 1998; 26: The Boulevard, Langford Lane, Kidlington, Oxford OX5 1GB, England. Pergamon-Elsevier Science Ltd. 237-249.

Abstract: Although some recent research examined the relationship between the use of alcohol/drugs and criminality, little effort has been directed at the interdependency of alcohol and other drug use in relation to crime involvement. Such research is of theoretical significance in that it predicts the extent to which criminality is increased by multiple addictions; it is also of practical significance because effective intervention/prevention strategies can be formed to reduce offenders' alcohol/drug problems and, thus, their criminality. Expanding past research, the author examined a series of hypotheses that stipulate an interaction effect between alcohol and cocaine use on criminal behavior. The centering method was used to cope with the multicollinearity problem in the analysis. Data indicate that alcohol and cocaine use tends to increase criminality more in an independent than in art interdependent manner. Findings suggest that to reduce the risks of involvement in crimes, alcohol and drug use habits may need to be addressed simultaneously.

Note: Article Yu J, New York State Off Alcoholism & Subst Abuse Serv, Albany,NY 12203 USA

Keyword(s): ADOLESCENT DRUG-USE; YOUNG ADULTHOOD; STRUCTURAL MODEL; PROBLEM DRINKING; PATTERNS; CRIME; CONSUMPTION; PERSONALITY; PROGRESSION; DISORDERS

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