Search

The present study tests a conceptual framework guided by the social disorganization theory, which examined whether neighborhood deterioration was correlated with perceived hopelessness, and coping strategies (i.e., defending behavior and a display of a tough demeanor). We also examined whether, within the context of social disadvantage, some coping strategies were correlated with aggressive behavior, which might be associated with peer victimization. The study sample consisted of 502 African American youths in low‐resource communities in Chicago's Southside. Results indicated that neighborhood deterioration was positively associated with hopelessness (B =.138, p =.006), tough demeanor (B =.137, p =.042), and peer victimization (B =.158, p =.011). Also, hopelessness was positively associated with peer victimization (B =.109, p =.025). Defending behavior was positively associated with physical aggression (B =.110, p =.009) and verbal aggression (B =.047, p =.019). Moreover, tough demeanor was also positively associated with physical aggression (B =.217, p <.001) and verbal aggression (B =.169, p <.001). Furthermore, verbal aggression was found to be positively associated with peer victimization (B =.766, p =.019). Overall, findings point to a more nuanced and complex relationship between neighborhood conditions and peer victimization among urban African American youth. An understanding of the coping strategies of urban adolescents in dealing with peer victimization encounters can shed light on the complexities of adolescent peer dynamics in urban areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study examined whether having had an incarcerated adult family member was associated with youth bullying perpetration. The study also examined whether exposure to delinquent peers' norms, trauma, and externalizing behaviors mediated the link between adult family member's incarceration and bullying perpetration. The study sample consisted of 638 African American adolescents, aged 13 to 21, in Chicago's Southside. Major findings indicated that 46.8% of the study participants reported bullying perpetration (i.e., at least 1 to 2 times in the past 30 days). Moreover, an adult family member's incarceration history was found to be positively associated with having peers who endorsed delinquent norms, trauma, and externalizing behaviors, which were linked to youth's bullying perpetration. Programs addressing youth bullying need to consider the family dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]