Secondary Data Analysis

Beginning with a clear outline of this study's research questions and hypotheses, this chapter systematically presents the quantitative methodology employed in this study. A detailed description of the NYTD dataset employed for this study, including its reliability and validity, is provided. The sample for this study was respondents in the 2nd NYTD cohort who responded to all three waves of data collection. The final analytic sample was n = 6,056. All study variables are clearly defined both conceptually and operationally. The dependent variable for this study was incarceration experience between the ages of 19 and 21. The primary independent variable was confinement in a correctional facility before age 17. Mediating variables included educational attainment by age 19, educational enrollment at age 19, employment at age 19, and incarceration experience between the ages of 17 and 19. Checks for validity, missing data, and the data analytic techniques used in the study are outlined, and the predicted mediation model is presented.