NCJ Number
148589
Date Published
1955
Length
198 pages
Annotation
This book represents an attempt to formulate and to solve certain neglected but crucial problems in understanding delinquency.
Abstract
Whether or not using the term "delinquent subculture," many people evoke the concept when attributing delinquent boys' behavior to bad environmental influences. The influence of culture is often taken for granted. Codes of behavior, beliefs, tastes, prejudices, etc. are to some degree determined by culture. Within cultures, there are subcultures. A delinquent subculture indicates one in which delinquency has become a tradition. Some delinquent boys grow up to be law-abiding citizens; others merely graduate to more professional and adult forms of criminality. The delinquent subculture is carried on by successive age groups. According to psychogenic theories, the impulse for delinquent behavior is common to all persons; those who become delinquent are those who lack a development of social values. Some observers assume that the impulse for delinquent behavior is inborn; others say it results from problems in adjusting to society. These general theories are examined in detail. Index, endnotes