NCJ Number
105612
Date Published
1987
Length
34 pages
Annotation
This paper reviews research findings which link biomedical disorders and delinquency, explores promising treatment approaches for these disorders, recommends research approaches in this area, and suggests current strategies for addressing the problem.
Abstract
Research shows a considerable overlap between a variety of physical, cognitive, and emotional dysfunctions and serious delinquency. This overlap is generally nonspecific and apparently reflects a high degree of functional impairment in delinquents rather than any particular type of dysfunction. Some data indicate specific links between altered functional arousal states and delinquency. These require further definition and analysis, especially regarding the relationships between attention deficits and conduct disorders. Primary prevention of juvenile delinquency involves the early diagnosis and effective treatment of conditions in children and families which predispose the children to later delinquency. The biomedical problems most responsive to available preventive and treatment measures are perinatal problems, learning problems, attention-deficit disorder, and parental problems. More research is needed on the nature, prevalence, and treatability of psychopathology in serious delinquents, and the association between specific learning disabilities and delinquency should be researched with more specificity. Parents and professionals should receive additional education about attention-deficit disorder, and agencies dealing with delinquents should make increased use of competent psychiatric consultation. Demonstration projects that provide comprehensive health care service for students through the public schools should also be explored. 2 notes and 155 references.