Factors associated with future offending: comparing youth in grandparent-headed homes with those in parent-headed homes.

This study examined risk factors for reoffending by youth in grandparent-headed homes and those in parent-headed homes. Using data abstracted from the juvenile justice records of youth in a variety of living arrangements, we compared the records of 29 youth living in grandparent-headed homes with those of 37 youth living in parent-headed homes. Youth in grandparent-headed homes were significantly more likely to have risk factors and needs associated with reoffending. The findings suggest that youth in grandparent-headed homes are at greater risk for reoffending and that factors predisposing youth in grandparent-headed homes to reoffend may differ from those that predispose youth in non-grandparent-headed homes.