NCJ Number
122329
Journal
Journal of Research in Crime and Delinquency Volume: 27 Issue: 1 Dated: (February 1990) Pages: 30-51
Date Published
1990
Length
22 pages
Annotation
This article disputes the common view of delinquents as antisocial and amoral in view of indications of their willingness to assist persons at various social and physical distances who are crime victims.
Abstract
While delinquents do seem to be less supportive than other, non-delinquent juveniles, when the nature of intervention is considered (direct or indirect) in conflict situations, delinquents are more loyal to family and friends. In this regard, delinquents' loyalty is undivided, suggesting their social cohension is more particularistic and intense compared to the extensive and universalistic support given by other juveniles. Contact with other delinquents is directly related to in-group loyalty and accounts for part of the relationship between it and delinquency. Interpreted in terms of Simmel's view of conflict, group structure, and group cohension, the findings also suggest a departure from an additive model; delinquents involved in dyadic relationships with other delinquents are often "too" loyal. 5 tables, 57 references. (Author abstract modified)