Last Update 31 July 2023
The word juvenile
delinquency is a combination of two words. The first is juvenile and the second
is Delinquency is taken from the Latin word “delinquer”. The definition of
delinquer is to make a mistake. The word "juvenile" is derived from
the Latin word “Juvinis”. Juveniles refer to children. Children who are not
adults and whose age is not specified by criminal law are called children.
Juvenile
delinquency, which refers to unlawful behavior committed by minors, is
influenced by various factors and has significant implications for society.
Personality is one of the main risk factors that contribute to juvenile
delinquency [1].The role of the family in juvenile delinquency refers to the
influence and impact that familial factors can have on a young person's
involvement in criminal behavior. Family dynamics, parenting styles, and the
overall environment within the home can significantly shape a child's behavior
and choices.
Additionally,
intervention and treatment programs aimed at preventing crime and reducing
recidivism play a crucial role in addressing this issue [2]. Positive family
relationships, open communication, and supportive parenting can act as
protective factors against delinquency. An involved and caring family can
provide emotional support, guidance, and a sense of belonging, reducing the
likelihood of a child engaging in delinquent behaviors. The age of majority for
juveniles varies from state to state, with individuals under the age of 17 or
18 considered minors [3].
Conversely,
dysfunctional family dynamics, neglectful or abusive parenting, inconsistent
discipline, or exposure to criminal activity within the family can increase the
risk of juvenile delinquency. Lack of supervision, poor parental role models,
or substance abuse issues can contribute to a child's involvement in illegal
activities. The term "juvenile delinquency" is widely used in
academic literature to describe young individuals who have committed criminal
offenses [4]. According to some views, lack of parental care, particularly for
children with parents abroad, can contribute to juvenile delinquency [5].
Juvenile delinquency is characterized by antisocial behavior beyond parental
control, highlighting the importance of addressing the underlying causes of
such behavior [6].
It is important to note that family is just one of many factors influencing juvenile delinquency. Understanding and addressing delinquency cases require specialized approaches, as they are often heard in family courts instead of traditional criminal courts [7]. In legal terms, a "delinquent juvenile" is defined as a child between the ages of 6 and 18 who commits an offense that would be considered a crime if committed by an adult [8]. Other factors such as peer influence, socioeconomic conditions, and individual characteristics also play significant roles.
By considering these various factors and legal definitions, it becomes evident that understanding and addressing juvenile delinquency requires a comprehensive approach that addresses underlying risk factors and implements effective intervention strategies. Effective prevention and intervention programs often focus on addressing family
dynamics and providing support to both parents and children to reduce the risk
of juvenile delinquency.
