Crime and the Decline of Values

• NCJ Number: 104217
• Author(s): M W Cannon
• Date Published: 1986
• Length: 21 pages
• Grant Number(s): 79-JN-AX-0011; 85-JS-CX-0012
• Sponsoring Agency: Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP)
• Corporate Author: Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity International
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/; NCJRS Photocopy Services; Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity International
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: PAD Monograph Series. An address to the Southwestern Judicial Conference, Santa Fe, NM, June 4, 1981.

Annotation

American society needs to revitalize its moral and ethical foundation, because its failure to transmit positive values, norms, and attachments from one generation to another is the source of the rise in violent crime and juvenile delinquency.

Abstract

Traditional institutions like churches, schools, and the family have declined in influence. Audiovisual media that emphasize hedonism and the use of force are becoming more influential in conveying values. To reverse this trend, our schools need to teach values. They also need law-related education to help young people understand both the rights and the responsibilities of the U.S. Constitution and legal system. In addition, constructive organizations need to increase youth activities, children need guidance toward quality media productions, and delinquents need effective education and counseling. Other needs are strengthened families and communities and an increase in the number of potential attachments citizens have to prosocial institutions. 60 footnotes.