Problem Behavior and Romantic Relationships: Assortative Mating, Behavior Contagion, and Desistance

Abstract

Antisocial behavior and substance misuse are forms of problem behavior demonstrating considerable continuity over time. Accordingly, problem behavior influences interpersonal contexts across the life course, which may result in the replication of coercive interactions and a problem behavior lifestyle within romantic relationships. Furthermore, theories of self-selection, and associated research, suggest that individuals pick companions compatible with, and supportive of, their behavior, leading to high levels of similarity between romantic partners and the potential reinforcement of problem behavior over time. However, some research suggests that romantic relationships may play a positive role and facilitate desistance from problem behavior. The purpose of this paper is to explore how antisocial behavior and substance use both influence and are influenced by romantic relationships in late adolescence and early adulthood. We first review research regarding the extent of, and processes underlying, partner similarity in problem behavior. Next, we examine how romantic relationships may promote the desistance of problem behavior. Finally, we discuss possible moderators of the association between problem behavior and romantic relationships, as well as limitations, intergenerational implications, and recommended future directions of the reviewed research.

Romantic Relationship Status Changes and Substance Use Among 18- to 20-Year-Olds

“…This phenomenon may be the result of starting relationships with partners who themselves smoke, which, at least in the short term, outweighs the protective effects of entering a relationship. Several studies have identifi ed both socialization and selection effects of partners' substance use (Rhule-Louie and McMahon, 2007). Future research on short-and long-term relationship transitions would be strengthened by including an examination of the role of partner use.…”

Partners in crime? - De invloed van crimineel gedrag op huwelijkskansen en partnerselectie

“…Een kind vergroot de kansverhouding om te trouwen voor mannen, terwijl er bij vrouwen geen effect wordt gevonden. In overeenstemming met deze bevinding wordt wel gesteld dat vrouwen die buitenechtelijke kinderen hebben, minder welwillend staan ten opzichte van een huwelijk met de vader van het kind vanwege de slechte economische vooruitzichten (Rhule-Louie & McMahon, 2007). Er kan echter niet worden uitgesloten dat het hier om een registratieeffect gaat: voor mannen worden kinderen alleen geregistreerd als ze getrouwd zijn.…”

“…De beschermende effecten van het huwelijk zouden sterk kunnen samenhangen met het criminele gedrag van de partner waarmee wordt getrouwd. Wanneer de partner zelf ook delinquent gedrag vertoont, zou het goed kunnen zijn dat een criminele levensstijl juist gestimuleerd of in ieder geval gecontinueerd wordt (Rhule-Louie & McMahon, 2007;Simons, Stewart, Gordon, Conger & Elder, 2002). Partners hebben waarschijnlijk dezelfde normen en waarden op het gebied van delinquent gedrag, leren van elkaar en dragen hun criminele technieken en vaardigheden aan elkaar over.…”

The Role of Parents, Peers and Partners in Cannabis Use and Dependence Trajectories among Young Adult Frequent Users

“…Common interests in drug use and shared experiences appear essential for finding and maintaining steady relationships (Dishion & Owen, 2002;Vervaeke & Korf, 2006). Although support has been found for all three mechanisms, Rhule-Louie & McMahon (2007) concluded in an extensive review on antisocial behavior (including drug use) that many studies unjustly assume a prosocial role for partners while, in fact, the particular influence on the individual's deviant behavior depends on the partner's deviant behavior. Interestingly, a recent systematic review on partner similarity and antisocial behavior pointed to methodological differences: while retrospective data almost all supported selection over socialization, prospective data provided evidence of socialization (Knight, 2011).…”

“…While studies on this theme include young adults, the emphasis is often on marriage. The transition to marriage appears to have the greatest impact and is associated with less drug use or desistance (Chen, Kandel, & Davies, 1997;Maume, Ousey, & Beaver, 2005;Ragan & Beaver, 2010;Rhule-Louie & McMahon, 2007). Recovery from cannabis dependence has been linked to being married (Agosti & Levin, 2007).…”