Norms of Violence: Violent Socialization Processes and the Spillover Effect for Youth Crime

Violent socialization processes, both at the macro- and micro-levels, are associated with youth criminal behavior. This book argues that violent socialization is a process involving physical violence, exposure to violence, and pro-violent communications, and that it contributes to a norm of violence that spills over into other dimensions of society, including the family environment. It seeks to answer if violent socialization processes truly control youth behavior and uses quantitative methods to demonstrate how violent socialization tends to be more prevalent in nations with indicators of violence compared to nations without such indicators. It provides a reference point for future comparative research and is essential reading for those engaged in youth and juvenile justice efforts and scholars interested in issues surrounding violence, youth, and justice.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 140 pages
Publication date: 26 September 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Norms of Violence: Violent Socialization Processes and the Spillover Effect for Youth Crime delves into the profound connection between violent socialization processes, spanning both macro- and micro-levels, and youth criminal behavior. Drawing upon a quantitative examination of an integrated theory of social control and culture of violence, the author makes a compelling argument that violent socialization is a multifaceted process encompassing physical violence, exposure to violence, and the promotion of pro-violent communications. When all three dimensions are taken into account, in conjunction with national-level indicators of violence, they collectively contribute to the establishment of a norm of violence that permeates various aspects of society, including the family environment.

In this book, the author aims to explore the extent to which violent socialization processes truly exert control over young individuals' behavior. To achieve this, a range of quantitative methodologies are employed to illustrate the prevalence of violent socialization in nations characterized by high levels of violence compared to those with lower indicators of violence. Furthermore, the book sheds light on the phenomenon of violence spilling over into socialization processes, creating a context where violence is normalized as a means of social control. This, in turn, exacerbates youth criminal behavior within nations that embrace pro-violent ideologies.

What sets this book apart is its unique approach, which focuses not solely on victimization as a correlate of youth crime but also on offending. By examining both victimization and offending, the book provides a comprehensive understanding of international youth crime. It serves as a valuable reference point for future comparative research, offering theoretical explanations for youth crime across different nations. Moreover, it is an essential read for those engaged in youth and juvenile justice efforts, as well as scholars interested in issues surrounding violence, youth, and justice.

Weight: 285g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367712310