NCJ Number
127419
Journal
International Journal of Comparative and Applied Criminal Justice Volume: 14 Issue: 1-2 Dated: (Spring/Winter 1990) Pages: 25-40
Date Published
1990
Length
16 pages
Annotation
A 1986 study was conducted of 11th grade male students in selected high schools in Seoul, South Korea to determine the causes of delinquent behavior.
Abstract
Based on the integration of three American theories of delinquency -- cultural deviance, social control, and social learning -- the research developed a culture-specific causal model of Korean delinquency using a path analysis procedure. Predictor variables examined were attachment to school, youth culture, detraditionalization, intergenerational conflict, attachment to parents, delinquent associates, hanging out, discontent with home/school, and delinquent definition. The results of the analysis indicate that low attachment to school is an early precursor of delinquency, and youth culture is the most salient causal element. Discontent with home and school also are important predictor variables of delinquent behavior among this sample. The fact that every variable in the model contributed to the process of delinquency demonstrates the need for integration of theories explaining delinquent behavior. 3 tables and 36 references (Author abstract modified)