NCJ Number
180448
Journal
Australian and New Zealand Journal of Criminology Volume: 32 Issue: 1 Dated: April 1999 Pages: 27-41
Date Published
April 1999
Length
15 pages
Annotation
This paper describes recent developments in juvenile delinquency and juvenile justice in the People's Republic of China.
Abstract
China considers delinquency to be crime among person ages 14-25 years. However, the Juvenile Protection Law of 1991 uses the term juvenile delinquent for persons under age 18 years. An increase in delinquency among persons ages 14-25 has accompanied the improvement in the overall economy. Juveniles account for a disproportionate share of total crime in China. However, the delinquency rates in China are much lower than those of Hong Kong or the United States. China's model of delinquency control is quite distinct from western models. China's social control orientation is a mixture of informal control or low-level institutionalization and formal control or the surveillance approach. Thus, both informal grassroots networks and formal correctional institutions have roles in controlling juvenile delinquency. However, the inseparable relationship between the Communist Party and control systems, the frequent turnover of volunteers, and insufficient professional staff hinder the development of a fair and independent juvenile justice system. A body of opinion exists in support of modernizing the system by adding professional elements, but not by making it similar to western systems. Four features of Chinese culture that are relevant to a modern juvenile justice system are: (1) positive shaming and forgiveness, (2) the logic of interdependency, (3) the attractiveness of gang brotherhood, and (4) the link between social disadvantage and delinquency. However, the continuation of socioeconomic conditions will limit the success of such a system. Figures and 43 references (Author abstract modified)