School Dropout, Delinquent Behavior, and Drug Use

Abstract

The importance of acquiring at least a high school education in our society is well established. Those who do not complete high school experience more social disadvantages later in life, particularly in terms of employment and economic well-being. Yet an increasing number of youngsters drop out of school prior to graduating, especially youngsters who live in relatively poor areas of the inner city. Because of the negative social and economic consequences of dropping out of school, it is important that we (1) identify factors that increase the risk of dropping out of school and (2) understand better the consequences of dropping out. Only by doing so can we develop effective policies to combat this problem.