Child Neglect and Adolescent Violence: Examining the Effects of Self-Control and Peer Rejection

Authors

Constance L. Chapple, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Kimberly A. Tyler, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Bianca E. Bersani, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow

Date of this Version

2-2005

Comments

Published in Violence and Victims 20:1 (February 2005), pp. 39–53. Copyright © 2005 Springer Publishing Company. Used by permission.

Abstract

Child maltreatment researchers have often suggested that experiences with child neglect have long-term, negative effects. Child neglect is thought to have particularly adverse effects on self-control, peer relations, and delinquency. In this research, we examine the relationship of child neglect with adolescent violence via self-control and peer rejection. Using prospective, longitudinal data from a community sample, we find that child neglect adversely affects peer rejection and violence. Neglected children were more likely to be rejected by their peers in early adolescence and were more likely to be violent later in adolescence. Contrary to theoretical predictions, child neglect was not a significant predictor of self-control. Implications for delinquency and child maltreatment researchers are discussed.