Causal Factors: Social Control Theory (From Juvenile Delinquency in the Netherlands, P 41-75, 1988, Josine Junger-Tas and Richard L Block, eds. -- See NCJ-114384)

• NCJ Number: 114387
• Author(s): J Junger-Tas
• Date Published: 1988
• Length: 35 pages
• Sale Source: Kugler Publications
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: Netherlands

Annotation

The role of social integration (social control) was examined in family, school, and attitudinal data on attachment for 2,000 Dutch juveniles.

Abstract

Scales designed to evaluate attachment to conventional systems, values and norms provided evidence supportive of social control theory. Almost all juveniles were found to subscribe to conventional norms regarding delinquency. Family integration (parental control, communication, shared family activity, family climate) were related to delinquency rates, with poor family bonds being common among a majority of delinquent youth. Similarly, delinquency was more common among youth showing poor school integration as defined in terms of school performance, social behavior, and commitment to education. Both family and school integration were related to some socioeconomic variables, particularly paternal educational or occupational level. Family and school integration also were related to use of leisure time, which in turn was related to delinquency. Weak family integration, failure in school, and socially unacceptable leisure activities combined with peer group influences to create a climate for delinquent behavior. Those who engaged in delinquent behaviors associated with similarly delinquent peers. Finally, nondelinquent values and norms were associated with greater family, school, and leisure integration, and fewer delinquent peers. Findings from a two year followup (1981 and 1983), were substantially similar, with differences probably reflective of differences in maturational processes. 5 figures, 11 tables, and 14 references.