Publication Type: Conference Paper/Unpublished Manuscript
Abstract: Assortative mating for antisocial behavior has many negative consequences, including risk for intergenerational transmission of problem behaviors through both genetic and environmental mechanisms. Although there is some consensus among researchers that individuals assortatively mate, research is deficient. Three factors contribute to our limited understanding. First, relatively few studies have investigated assortative mating for antisocial behavior. Second, of the studies that do exist, the magnitude of this relationship varies depending on the type of measure used. Third, methodological weaknesses, such as using small sample sizes, retrospective measures, and single respondents, further undermine empirical support. In addition, few studies have examined the important role that gender may play in assortative mating processes. This paper addresses these issues by conducting an investigation of assortative mating for antisocial behavior using prospective, longitudinal data from the Rochester Youth Development Study and the Rochester Intergenerational Study. Findings from 329 dyads, defined as either ‘mates’ or ‘partners,’ revealed that assortative mating is prevalent among this community-based sample, and that clear gender differences exist. Males positively assorted on six measures of antisocial behavior, including general and serious offending, delinquent peers and beliefs, and heavy and problem drinking.

Publication Type: Conference Paper/Unpublished Manuscript
Abstract: Understanding the bi-directional influence of antisocial behavior and mate selection may offer important insight into the continuity of antisocial behavior across the life course and for future generations. However, the underlying mechanisms and consequences of assortative mating are not fully understood and are difficult to test empirically. It is nearly impossible to design a study that follows mates from adolescence into late adulthood because, at the initiation of a study, few adolescents know with whom they are going to mate (i.e., have a child with). Nonetheless, by combining longitudinal data from the Rochester Youth Development Study and the Rochester Intergenerational Study, this paper will (1) investigate assortative mating for antisocial behavior, (2) differentiate between assortative mating and mates’ concordance on antisocial behaviors after mate selection, and (3) examine the extent to which assortative mating mediates the relationship between adolescent delinquency and adult crime. Given these goals, this paper hypothesizes that, first, assortative mating will be substantial but males will be more likely to positively assort. Second, mates’ concordance will increase after mate selection but the effect will be stronger for females. Finally, this paper will demonstrate the gendered influence of assortative mating and mate concordance on an individual’s antisocial trajectory.

Publication Type: Conference Paper/Unpublished Manuscript
Review Method: Peer Reviewed
Abstract: This paper describes Australia's laissez-faire and clubbish political finance system. One of the few accountability mechanisms built into the system, donation disclosure law has had little impact beyond sporadic embarrassment.

Publication Type: Conference Paper/Unpublished Manuscript
Abstract: Relational development/deterioration exhibits trajectories. This study examined how mate value, partner baggage [negative attributes/circumstances partners bring to relationships that may impede relational outcomes], and attachment styles were examined across two data waves to determine their impact on relational commitment and changes in those relationships. Participants were 281 individuals in romantic relationships across 8 weeks. Partner baggage was coded into 10 reliable categories. A high mate value at Time 1 positively correlated with Time 2 commitment, and inversely, initial partner baggage was negatively related to Time 2 commitment. Overall, mate value contributed more to relational change than partner baggage. Hence, partner baggage may be perceived more as a relational ripple rather than a major relational obstacle. For attachment style, mate value predicted commitment over time for secure individuals, while partner baggage was more predictive for nonsecure individuals. Perceptions of commitment at the first data collection predicted relational changes 8 weeks later.

Publication Type: Conference Paper/Unpublished Manuscript
Abstract: Study 1 compared romantic partners’ mate value to determine who the “better half” was in relationships. Results indicated both partners are the “better half” in relationships. Both sexes perceived their partners to have higher mate values than themselves in more established relationships. Study 2 explored perceptions of communication satisfaction and nonverbal immediacy and their influence on perceptions of partner mate value. Results found communication satisfaction predicted individuals’ perceptions of partners’ mate value.