NCJ Number
150603
Date Published
1991
Length
338 pages
Annotation
Based on a study of international literature, this analysis investigates the complex and interrelated factors which may lead to juvenile delinquency.
Abstract
The introductory chapter defines delinquent behavior, traces the evolution of delinquency in juveniles, and compares delinquent and nondelinquent juveniles. Next, the time period from 12 years to adulthood is characterized as an intersection of two developments: the juvenile's development as a member of society and as an individual. The third chapter introduces the juvenile's individual development including personality characteristics, intellectual and emotional functioning, the influence of norms, and the importance of a positive self-image. The chapter describing family influence considers such basic factors as family size, birth order, and family completeness as well as feelings of alienation, the family's child rearing practices, and the criminality of parents and siblings. Two chapters analyze the role of the school and peers (including gangs) in delinquency. A chapter on the juvenile's position in society considers the interrelationship of social factors (e.g., wealth, poverty, religious denomination, neighborhood) and delinquency. The following chapter enumerates at-risk juveniles such as runaways, rebellious youths, minorities, and juveniles using alcohol and drugs. The final chapter develops an interdisciplinary theory of juvenile delinquency which integrates individual, interpersonal, and social components of juvenile delinquency. 58 pages of references