NCJ Number
175787
Journal
International Journal of Comparative and Applied Criminal Justice Volume: 22 Issue: 1-2 Dated: Spring-Fall 1998 Pages: 235-248
Date Published
1998
Length
14 pages
Annotation
Previous empirical research on the relationship among school factors and juvenile delinquency was examined to determine whether schooling and low academic achievement, together with peer influences, are encouraging some students to commit crimes more frequently.
Abstract
The discussion noted that most countries require education for all children until about age 16 and that this compulsory education setting may actually breed juvenile delinquency. The analysis considered research conducted in the United States, the United Kingdom, and other countries. It summarized studies on intelligence and juvenile delinquency and on the influence of school factors such as academic progress, frustration due to stricter rules at school than at home, and punishment of problem students. The discussion also covered school-based juvenile delinquency prevention through athletic participation, preschool intellectual enrichment programs, teaching children to reduce antisocial peer influences, and the Head Start Program. It also examined peer groups and gangs at school, aggression among students, violence in schools, and the relationship between juvenile delinquency and adult criminality. The analysis concluded that juvenile delinquency has complex relationships with many factors, but schools have an indirect effect and considerable influence on students' behavior, academic achievement, and willingness to attend school. Findings indicate the need for further study of these complex relationships, the development of effective methods to prevent juvenile delinquency, the use of these methods when delinquent behaviors are first noticed, and increasing efforts by parents and schools to teach children ethical values to prepare them better for the peer pressure from delinquent neighborhood influences. 55 references (Author abstract modified)