Routes : tracking the pathways into drug and criminal careers

Abstract

This qualitative study explores the different pathways into drug and criminal careers among a number of young Maltese male and female individuals. Their ages range between 18 and 32. The concept of career is used throughout this study. The data was collected by using in-depth interviews that consisted of open-ended questions. This research uses grounded theory methodology. It is evident that there exists various paths into criminal and addictive behaviour, and it may be trivial to try to identify which behaviour precedes the other or to focus on initial causality. This study documents the development of the drug and criminal career by identifying important contingencies, including the family, the peer group, the school and the criminal justice system, that may contribute to making such pathways more or less possible. It explores the onset, and commitment in the drug and criminal career. Self concept and how the individual comes to perceive himself are important themes throughout this research. The drug and criminal lifestyle is also addressed. This study concludes with the major outcomes and recommendations for future research and service development.