Quantitative Analysis

Despite the high prevalence of youth offending in Argentina, there are relatively few investigations of the factors that may be associated with it. The identification of these factors may help to inform the development of interventions which could be delivered to young offenders to reduce repeat offending. Considering the great need for further study of juvenile recidivism, in light of the lack of research in the specific cultural context of Argentina, this chapter provides quantitative evidence examining to what extent there are differences and similarities in the prediction of criminal recidivism of young offenders in Argentina, compared with studies in other countries. 65 juvenile recidivists are compared with 59 one-time offenders. Effect sizes were calculated for 24 risk factors for recidivism. Seven groups of risk factors were compared: (a) demographic information, (b) offence history, (c) family factors, (d) educational factors, (e) substance use history, (f) social factors, and (g) community and societal influences. Forward stepwise logistic regression analyses were carried out in order to investigate independent predictors. Our findings could be viewed as a piece of exploratory research in the field. We also expect that the findings of the present chapter will prepare the ground for follow-up research and new studies and interventions aiming to reduce recidivism in the Argentinian context.