NCJ Number
128732
Journal
Journal of Adolescent Research Volume: 2 Issue: 3 Dated: (1987) Pages: 255-268
Date Published
1987
Length
14 pages
Annotation
This paper presents a developmental perspective on the role of the family in the onset of juvenile delinquency with emphasis on parental neglect. The model presented by the paper distinguishes between three groups of delinquents, broken down by the age at which they started their delinquent behavior and familial backgrounds.
Abstract
The groups are the middle adolescent onset delinquents, early adolescent onset delinquents, and preadolescent onset delinquents. It is impossible to generalize about the social origins of the first group. This group starts delinquent activity around 15, shows infrequent involvement in delinquent activity, is unlikely to commit acts of extreme violence against others, and has a low likelihood of involvement in criminal activity in adulthood. The second group begins between the ages of 11 and 14 and has a probability of repeated offenses during adolescence with low likelihood of criminal activity in adulthood. This group is more peer-oriented. The third group begins its delinquent activity as early as preschool. These adolescents have had identifiable problems with aggression, impulsivity, social skills, and self-regulation. It is suggested that a lack of parental monitoring is associated with middle adolescent onset delinquency, an excess of parental permissiveness with early adolescent onset delinquency, and early disruption in the parent-child relationship with preadolescent onset delinquency. The implications of these propositions for theory, research, and practice in the area of delinquency prevention are also discussed. 45 references