2008 Southern Sociological Society Meeting "Race Differences in Girl Violence: The Importance of School Success"

This study examines differences in violence between black and white adolescent females and the role of school identity. The researchers hypothesized that 1) black females would report higher levels of violence, 2) identifying as a good student would reduce violence, and 3) stress, anger, and peers would help explain racial differences in violence. Analyses found black females reported twice as much violence but identifying as a good student reduced violence for all. Strong student identity buffered the impact of race such that black females committed less violence than white females if they valued being good students. The findings suggest marginalized identities and commitment to academics influence adolescent female violence.