Draft:Family Structure Theory
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Family Structure Theory[1] is a social science framework developed by Dr. Matthew L. Harrison, professor of emergency medicine and public health at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School[2] and Texas Christian University Burnett School of Medicine.[3] The theory suggests that a child's family structure during their formative years plays a critical role in shaping adult behavior. In particular, the absence of a second parental figure during childhood is associated with a greater likelihood of criminal behavior and incarceration in adulthood, even after adjusting for other possible contributing factors.
Harrison's analysis[1] of U.S. Census data, along with statistics from the Department of Justice and the Bureau of Prisons, revealed a significant correlation between the rise of single-parent households and the increase in incarceration rates across all demographic groups in the U.S. during the late 20th century.1
His work builds on earlier research indicating that children raised in single-parent families are at greater risk for adolescent delinquency, probation, and imprisonment.2-4
References
[edit]1. Harrison ML, Wang H, Blackwell J. The Correlation between Single-parent Homes and Incarceration in the United States of America. Asian J. Soc. Health Behav 2025; 8(4):191-198. DOI: 10.4103/shb.shb_342_24
2. Harper CC, McLanahan SS. Father absence and youth incarceration. J Res Adolesc 2004;14:369-97.
3. Kroese J, Bernasco W, Liefbroer A, Rouwendal J. Growing up in single-parent families and the criminal involvement of adolescents: A systematic review. Psychol Crime Law 2020;27:61-75.
4. Angel R, Worobey JL. Single motherhood and children's health. J Health Soc Behav 1988;29:38-52.
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