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The cycle of violence.

C S Widom1

  • 1Department of Criminal Justice, Indiana University, Bloomington 47405.

Science (New York, N.Y.)
|April 14, 1989
PubMed
Summary

Childhood victimization, including abuse and neglect, elevates the risk of future delinquency and adult criminal behavior. However, most victimized children do not perpetuate violence, highlighting the complexity of the cycle of violence.

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Area of Science:

  • Criminology
  • Developmental Psychology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • The 'cycle of violence' hypothesis suggests childhood victimization leads to adult violence.
  • Methodological challenges often limit understanding of long-term consequences of child maltreatment.
  • Empirical evidence is needed to clarify the relationship between childhood victimization and subsequent violent behavior.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To examine empirical evidence for the cycle of violence.
  • To investigate the long-term consequences of childhood victimization on criminal behavior.
  • To analyze the association between child abuse/neglect and adult violent criminal behavior.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized a cohort study design to track individuals over time.
  • Analyzed data on childhood victimization (abuse and neglect).
  • Assessed outcomes including delinquency, adult criminal behavior, and violent criminal behavior.

Main Results:

  • Childhood abuse and neglect significantly increase the risk of delinquency.
  • Victimization in childhood is associated with a higher likelihood of adult criminal behavior.
  • A correlation exists between childhood victimization and engaging in violent criminal behavior in adulthood.

Conclusions:

  • While childhood victimization is a risk factor, it does not predetermine future violence.
  • The majority of children who experience abuse or neglect do not become violent offenders.
  • Findings necessitate careful interpretation regarding the direct causality and prevalence of the cycle of violence.

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