The effect of abuse in childhood and in adolescence on violence among adolescents

This study of 1,031 persons from five public high schools examined the relative effects of elements of control, strain, and social learning theories on violence among younger (< 16 years of age) and older ( greater than or equal to16 years of age) adolescents, Of special interest were the differential effects of adult abuse during childhood and during adolescence on violence of these two age groups. Findings show that the effects of abuse by adults during childhood on violence arc mediated by other study factors only among older adolescents. Attachments to female caregivers, self-esteem, and fathers' education have inverse relationships, while suicide attempts are positively related to violence only, among adolescents 15 years of age or younger. Attachment to father beliefs, and religiosity are inversely related to violence, whereas feelings of frustration and alienation are positively related to this outcome for both age groups. Implications for theory are discussed.