NCJ Number
232923
Date Published
2010
Length
37 pages
Annotation
This chapter examines the extent to which youth antisocial behavior is a problem created by politicians.
Abstract
Over the last two decades, antisocial behavior has been the subject of a catalogue of laws, policies, and interventions, and a lot of 'tough talk' in England and Wales. Just as with youth crime a quick look at the headlines would give the impression that antisocial behavior has become an increasing problem in recent years. However, it is hard to assess the accuracy of this contention because the scale of antisocial behavior is not known. There has been a push of antisocial behavior-related legislation since 1998 and a growing armory of responses. Patterns of low-level crime and disorder that have a cumulative impact on individuals and communities clearly exist, especially in the most deprived neighborhoods. Politicians seem to feel that they need a new word and a new campaign to kick start action in a particular area, and antisocial behavior seems to be a prime example of this. However, a more sensible approach would be to take these problems seriously while avoiding a moral panic. This chapter sets forth evidence that concludes that the most promising measures are those that address the underlying reasons why young people commit antisocial behavior and offer practical assistance to help them change their behavior. Figures, tables, notes, and references