Trajectories of Exclusionary Discipline: Risk Factors and Associated Outcomes.

Research examining the school-to-prison pipeline alludes to the existence of trajectories of exclusionary discipline; however, disciplinary trajectories and their associated risk factors and outcomes have not yet been examined quantitatively across developmental periods. The purpose of this study was to identify trajectories of school suspension between the ages of 8–16, determine risk factors and markers associated with trajectory group membership, and examine whether trajectory group membership was associated with arrest. Results identified two trajectories of school suspension- a low-level trajectory, and a pushout trajectory. Being Black, male, and levels of aggression, and externalizing behaviors were associated with pushout group membership. Pushout group membership was also associated with arrest. Results have implications for researchers and policymakers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]