Neighborhood, crime, and substance use: A population-wide investigation

In this project, we will systematically analyze the association between neighborhood social structure and criminal behavior and substance misuse. We will 1) characterize neighborhood social structure in a novel way by applying advanced modeling techniques, 2) examine whether the associations of neighborhood with criminal behavior and substance misuse could be due to confounding from familial contributions or selection effects, and 3) study whether the association between criminal behavior and substance misuse is moderated by neighborhood social structure. We will use population data from Swedish national registries and cohort data. A comprehensive understanding of these associations will provide an unparalleled opportunity for direct action at the policy level.