Adolescent Homicides in Los Angeles

Are They Different From Other Homicides?

Why would we expect homicides that involve adolescents to differ from other homicides?

First, the research on age-based violent offending patterns (Elliott, 1994)tells us that most juveniles "mature out," especially when they get jobs and form relationships that help keep them out of trouble. The serious and violent offender research points to only a small number of chronic offenders that continue to cause trouble well into adulthood.

Second, developmental theorists tell us there is something special about adolescents: peer influences are stronger and we might expect more spontaneous or expressive violence (Elliott and Tolan, 1998; Flannery, Huff and Manos, 1998). Certainly, we expect more co-offending and youth-involved events that would have amore chaotic or less organized flavor. Status issues might come into play more and there may be less thoughtful reasoning around the use of guns.

Finally, routine activities theory tells us that youth hang out more. They have more unstructured time, engage in risky behaviors, and have more opportunity for violence exposure than do adults.

I want to get your thoughts on this issue - Based on the little information I have provided, what are your thoughts and concerns with this view?