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Criminality Among Female Drug Users Following an HIV Risk-Reduction Intervention

Emory University and Louisiana State University

Kirk W. Elifson

Georgia State University

Claire E. Sterk

Emory University

Eric A. Stewart

University of Missouri–St. Louis

The main objectives of this article are to determine the prevalence of criminality among a sample of female African American drug users and to examine change in criminality over time, including the correlates associated with this change. Data were collected from 336 adult women who participated in an HIV risk-reduction intervention focused on the context of the women's daily life. Face-to-face structured interviews were conducted at baseline, prior to enrolling in the intervention, and at follow-up, 6 months after completion of the intervention. Bivariate and correlated multivariate methods were utilized to examine changes in criminality and other behaviors over time. Both violent and nonviolent criminality declined significantly between baseline and follow-up assessments. Of the correlates considered, drug-using characteristics and victimization played the greatest role in explaining the decrease in criminality. Low self-control and depressive symptoms also contributed to the reduction in criminality. The findings suggest the importance of considering individual characteristics that may influence the women's criminal behavior as well as the impact of their routine activities.

Key Words: criminality • criminal behavior • women • drug users • HIV intervention

Journal of Interpersonal Violence, Vol. 22, No. 1, 85-107 (2007)
DOI: 10.1177/0886260506294998


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