Continuity in Criminal Behavior: The Interplay of Early-Onset Delinquency and Victimization

The concept of victim-offender overlap has garnered increasing attention in criminology. Building on previous research, the current study aims to enhance our understanding of continuity in criminal behavior by examining the effects of early-onset delinquency, a well-established predictor of subsequent offending. Using a nationally representative sample of Korean adolescents, the results reveal that both early initiation of deviant behavior and victimization independently contribute to increased subsequent violence. Furthermore, their interaction effects are significant, indicating that the combination of these factors leads to a notable increase in violent delinquency over time. Theoretical implications, limitations, and suggestions for future research are discussed.