Revision with unchanged content. Studies have identified both stability
and change in criminal behavior across time. While most youth mature out
of delinquency in their late teens and early adulthood, some juvenile
delinquents persist in their criminal behavior with increased frequency
and severity. Researchers are often confronted with this question: "Why
will some youth continue their criminal behavior over time, when the
majority of their peers have made the transition to confor-mity?'' Based
on a longitudinal sample of previously institutionalized youth, this
work examines and tests alternative perspectives on life course
persistent criminal behavior. Findings of this work highlight several
important factors that affect persistent criminal behavior. Demographic
differences in pathways to persistent criminal behavior, such as gender
and race variations are also discussed. The book is addressed to
researchers and students in Juvenile Delinquency, Criminology and
Sociology. It is also directed towards profes-sionals in Criminal
Justice, Corrections, and Social Work.