NCJ Number
147601
Journal
Sociology and Social Research, 1969 Volume: 54 Dated: (1969) Pages: 63-71
Date Published
1969
Length
9 pages
Annotation
This article reviews the literature that concludes juvenile delinquency is primarily a group phenomenon, questions this conclusion based on current delinquency theory, and suggests topics and strategies for future research on delinquent behavior patterns.
Abstract
Most researchers in the field of juvenile delinquency assume the preponderence of group delinquency. Only the Sheriffs and Richard Korn and L.W. McCorkle question this assumption. Instead of referring to delinquency as primarily group behavior, they view it as "companionate" behavior. Research should begin anew to establish the relationship between delinquency and companionship. Definitions should be clarified prior to research. As a starting point, the term "group delinquency" should be discarded in favor of a more neutral term, such as "companionate behavior." A number of questions require immediate research attention. Research should determine how many delinquent incidents can be classified as group incidents for each of several conceptions of group. Having categorized incidents as to their group nature, researchers should decide how these data compare to comparable cohorts of undetected incidents and of nondelinquent companionship patterns. Research should also decide which kinds of group or companionship patterns are associated with various types of law violations. Finally, research must focus on how the group context of an incident affects its handling by the various components of the juvenile justice system. 27 footnotes