An “immigrant paradox” for adolescent externalizing behavior? Evidence from a national sample

摘要: Recent decades have witnessed a rise in the number of immigrant children United States (US) and concomitant concerns regarding externalizing behaviors such as crime, violence, drug misuse by adolescents. The objective present study was to systematically compare prevalence migration-related factors among US-born adolescents US. Data on 12 17 year olds (Weighted N thousands = 25,057) from National Survey Drug Use Health (NSDUH) R-DAS between 2002 2009 were used. online analytic software employed. Prevalence estimates 95 % confidence intervals calculated adjusting for complex survey sampling design. Compared their counterparts, adolescents—particularly those ages 15 17 years—are significantly less likely be involved behaviors. In addition, later age arrival fewer years spent US associated with reduced odds behavior. Supplementary analyses indicate that link nativity behavior may primarily driven differences youth who self-identify non-Hispanic black or Hispanic. Immigrant are also more report cohesive parental relationships, positive school engagement, disapproving views respect adolescent substance use. This extends prior research “immigrant paradox” using nationally representative data source. Findings highlight importance examining age, arrival, duration, race/ethnicity externalizing.