NCJ Number
165327
Date Published
1996
Length
6 pages
Annotation
Psychological aspects of new forms of juvenile delinquency in Milan, Italy are examined.
Abstract
Consultant psychologists contribute to the juvenile courts by explaining the crime; correlating it with the youth's life history; and understanding the emotional, symbolic, and relational significance of the offense. Young males referred for psychological evaluations typically come from families with multiple problems, including economic distress, mental illness, violence and abuse of children, and parental alcoholism. The mother typically expresses her own depression and resentment for her mistreatment in her relationship with her son. The father is usually emotionally and educationally remote. The elder brothers are usually already involved in delinquency and are inclined to recruit their younger brothers into their enterprises. Thus, the young male lacks the possibility of paternal identification, feels rejected by his mother, and feels obliged to support his brothers. These emotional elements sustain the new delinquency. The peer group and drug use also have strong influences. The youth feels excluded from conventional life and condemned forever to a different existence. Thus, early delinquency and more violent offenses correspond in fact with a less delinquent but more depressive, confused, and reactive psychological organization. Addressing the new forms and intentions of juvenile delinquency requires a closer functional integration among educators, mental health professionals, social services, and criminal justice professionals.