Citation

Kelly BC, Harris E, Vuolo M. Deviant Behav. 2017; 38(8): 941-956.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2017, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/01639625.2016.1229934

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

The escalation of deviant behavior remains a central issue for criminologists, although mechanisms of intensification remain understudied. Using a sample of prescription drug misusers recruited via time-space sampling, we test five theoretically informed hypotheses on social and psychological factors--sensation seeking; coping; stigma; peer drug associations; use for pleasant times with peers--that may impact the escalation of deviance via non-normative consumption. Social factors--peer drug associations and use for pleasant time with peers--as well as stigma were associated with escalation. Sensation seeking was mediated by social factors. Social contexts are crucial for the intensification of deviant behavior.

Language: en