Latent Profiles of Youth Engaging in Repeat Offending

<p><strong>Youth reoffending has been a persistent issue for decades, particularly during adolescence, where offending is often considered ‘near normative’ (Moffitt, 1993, 2018). While extensive research has been conducted, the problem still persists, with recent increases in youth reoffending noted in some countries (Cheng, 2024; MST Institute, 2018). Most studies in this area have focused on variable-centred approaches, examining relationships between different risk factors, while fewer have adopted a person-centred approach, often limited by focusing on single factors or broad factor domains. This thesis addresses this gap by combining person- and variable-centred approaches to explore individual differences in youth characteristics, focusing specifically on the ‘individual’ risk factor domain. Using data from 1,009 boys in the Pittsburgh Youth Study (PYS), a Latent Profile Analysis identified five distinct risk profiles (Normative, Slight-Risk, Anxious-Impulsive, Callous-Impulsive, and High-Risk) based on four constructs Interpersonal Callousness (IC), Hyperactivity, Impulsivity, and Inattention (HIA), Conduct Problems (CP) and Anxiety (ANX). These profiles were examined for their predictive value in youth reoffending and other dimensions of offending like participation, severity of offending and escalation over a seven-year period. In addition, the study explored within-individual differences by examining whether profile members transitioned between profiles across time. Findings indicate that the five latent profiles significantly predicted reoffending, and around 50% of the sample transitioned across profiles highlighting the importance of tailored interventions. This research contributes to the field by advocating for a more personalized approach to rehabilitation within juvenile justice systems.</strong></p>