Citation

Olate R, Salas-Wright C, Vaughn MG. Vict. Offender 2011; 6(4): 356-369.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2011, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/15564886.2011.607396

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Youth interventions often focus on high-risk youth; however, little is known about the similarities and differences of these youth cross-nationally. This study examines externalizing behaviors of youth in Boston (n = 374) and San Salvador (n = 208) and compares several domains.

RESULTS reveal significant differences between populations; Salvadoran youth exhibited higher rates of violence and delinquency, marijuana use, and unprotected sex. Similarities were found for school attendance and school dropout levels, employment, alcohol use, and sexual activity.

FINDINGS indicate that youth gang members may face a higher intensity of externalizing risk behaviors. These findings have implications for interventions and policies.

Language: en

Keywords

El Salvador; high-risk youth; Latin America; youth gangs; youth violence