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The Mediating Effect of Good School Performance on the Maltreatment-Delinquency Relationship

JEFFREY LEITER

MATTHEW C. JOHNSEN

KRISTEN A. MYERS

This article explores the possibility that good school performance may reduce the elevated risk of delinquency produced by maltreatment. Using a random sample of children with substantiated maltreatment reports (N = 522) and a random comparison sample of the general school population (N = 256), the authors find that neglected and physically abused, but not sexually abused, children are more likely than the general school population to be reported for delinquent acts. Good school performance, specifically good grades, low rates of in-school behavior problems during the elementary years, and good attendance, is associated with substantially reduced delinquent involvement for both at-risk groups. For physically abused children the elevated risk falls to statistically insignificant levels. The findings suggest interventions to raise the grades and attendance and improve the classroom behavior of physically abused and neglected children with the aim of reducing delinquency in these groups.

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