NCJ Number
164989
Journal
Psychology, Crime, and Law Volume: 1 Issue: 3 Dated: (1995) Pages: 247-261
Date Published
1995
Length
15 pages
Annotation
This Australian exploratory study collected and examined the vocabulary used by incarcerated youth in relation to goals, plans, gangs, and leadership roles.
Abstract
Intense, in-depth interviews were conducted with a sample of five subjects to collect data pertinent to goals that may be generalized to the larger delinquent population. Subjects were selected to represent different ages and cultural backgrounds within the incarcerated population. The length and nature of offending, type of last offense committed, and number of admittances to corrective institutions were also considered. An interview schedule that incorporated one vignette was used to direct discussion concerning juveniles' goals, plans, peers, gangs, and leadership roles. The overall findings of the study suggest that juvenile delinquents set specific and challenging goals to which they have committed themselves in order to achieve their desired outcomes. The goals of all five subjects were short-term and immediate. The goals were based on the acquisition of resources, having fun with friends, and playing sports. The common goal of all subjects was the acquisition of resources through "getting" money to obtain immediate material goods they lacked. Goals were based on stealing money to buy drugs, alcohol, and clothing. The juveniles set goals that are achievable, but they also set more challenging goals as they become proficient at the previous task. The challenge is also in the effort and persistence required to escape from the police. Although a hierarchical structure may exist within the delinquent population, delinquents may be unaware of the group processes that contribute to this structure. Directions for future research are discussed in relation to the findings. 15 references and an appended vignette from the study