The influence of risk-taking behaviors on the transition into marriage: An examination of the long-term consequences of adolescent behavior

Previous studies have examined the consequences of adolescent substance use and delinquency, yet most of these studies have focused on the relatively short-term effects of such behaviors. The present study examines the long-term consequences of adolescent delinquency and substance use as it affects the marital choices of young adults. Using a nationally representative sample of 5,331 females and 4,842 males in their late 20s, the analyses show that both substance use patterns and delinquent behavior in the adolescent years significantly affect the likelihood of marriage and the age at first marriage of young adults. Delinquent behaviors appear to increase the likelihood of marriage and lower the age at first marriage for both sexes, whereas higher levels of substance use (alcohol and marijuana) substantially lower females' likelihood of marriage. The results suggest that a gender difference exists in how risk-taking behaviors in adolescence impacts marital outcomes in adulthood. The analyses are discussed within the framework of precocious development theory.