Measuring the Problem

Abstract

This research examined socioeconomic variables, offending behavior, and prior police contact, as predictors of self-reported police contact (questioning or arrest). Utilizing multilevel models and eight waves of National Youth Survey Family Study data, the predictors were examined in a national sample of individuals, over 24 years. Results indicate that police contact is predominately predicted by sex, delinquent peers, and offending behavior. This suggests that several of the variables commonly discussed in police contact literature, including race, are not predictors of police contact at the national level in the United States. Implications of national-level findings on police policy are discussed.