Mitigating Risks of Incarceration Among Transition-Age Foster Youth: Considering Domains of Social Bonds
Drawing from social control theory and using CalYOUTH survey data, the study explores two domains of social bonds (interpersonal bonds, institutional bonds) youth had at the onset of adulthood, and assess the association between domains of social bonds and later incarceration in early adulthood. While results provide no support for the significance of interpersonal bondedness, institutional bonds were significantly associated with decreased odds of later incarceration. These findings help explain why some youth navigate the transition to adulthood better than others with regard to legal system involvement, and inform efforts to develop policy and provide services more effectively.