NCJ Number
96440
Journal
International Journal of Comparative and Applied Criminal Justice Volume: 8 Issue: 2 Dated: (Winter 1984) Pages: 187-198
Date Published
1984
Length
11 pages
Annotation
There is a need to investigate Western-based delinquency theories in African societies to assess their cross-cultural applicability. This research investigates the applicability of the U.S.-based delinquency theory which assumes that certain areas of the city characterized by physical deterioration and low social economic status, overcrowding, poor health and sanitary conditions, and extreme poverty are breeding grounds for delinquency. In such an environment, delinquency has become a tradition (Shaw and McKay, 1938 and 1942).
Abstract
The paper presents the ecology of delinquency in the metropolitan city of Lagos, Nigeria to show where delinquency occurs and among whom. Ecological data are presented on the place of residence of delinquents and the location of their offenses in metropolitan Lagos. The findings are discussed against similar pioneer studies in the United States, and implications are drawn concerning delinquency theories. The data, however, portray no evidence of a 'delinquency area' or the cultural transmission of delinquency values. Rather, factors generating delinquency in metropolitan Lagos should be sought in the 'family structure' and 'family bond' variables. Consequently, the ecological determinism theory of delinquency should be regarded as a culture-specific theory. (Publisher abstract)