Review of Literature
Understanding Juvenile Delinquency
Definitions[9,10]
In the words of W.H. Sheldon, it is “behaviour disappointing beyond reasonable expectation”.
Cyril Burt says, “delinquency occurs in a child, when his antisocial tendencies appear so grave that he becomes or ought to become the subject of official action”.
Frederick B. Sussmann presents a summary list of acts or conditions included in delinquency definition or description, viz, violation of any law or ordinance, habitual truancy, association with thieves, vicious or immoral persons, and incorrigible beyond control of parent or guardian and so on.
C.B. Mamoria writes, “the phrase juvenile delinquency may be loosely used to cover any kind of deviant behaviour of children which violates normative rules, understanding or expectation of social system”.
Causes for delinquency in children
Biological causes
Juvenile delinquency can often be attributed to biological factors, including hereditary abnormalities, intellectual impairments, physical disabilities, and hormonal imbalances. Research has also highlighted a potential connection between chromosomal irregularities and a propensity for delinquent or criminal behaviour. For instance, studies conducted on criminal patients in Scotland and other locations have identified a correlation, with some individuals exhibiting an extra Y chromosome.
Men with this XYY chromosomal pattern often experience profound disturbances in their overall personality.[11]
Social causes
Social factors significantly influence juvenile delinquency. These include disrupted family dynamics, such as the loss of a parent, parental separation, or the presence of a stepmother. Unstable home environments also play a role, often marked by poverty, alcoholism, parental neglect, lack of love, affection, support, or supervision.
Additionally, inadequate knowledge about effective child-rearing practices, excessively large families, truancy, peer influence and involvement in unlawful activities further contribute to juvenile delinquency.[11,12]
The media, including television, movies, and the internet, also influences juvenile perceptions, often shaping their attitude towards violence or antisocial behaviours. Exposure to violent or inappropriate content can desensitize young individuals, making them more likely to engage in aggressive or criminal activities, ultimately increasing delinquency rates.[13]
Psychological causes
Undiagnosed or untreated mental health issues, such as conduct disorder, depression, and anxiety, can play a significant role in juvenile delinquency. These conditions, when not addressed, can contribute to a lack of emotional regulation and poor decision-making, which can lead to delinquent behaviours.
Intellectual limitations can also be a contributing factor to juvenile crime. Children with mental challenges may struggle to distinguish between right and wrong, making them more susceptible to manipulation by others, including criminals who exploit their vulnerability.
Furthermore, emotional issues such as jealousy, feelings of inferiority, and frustration with society can drive some children to become antisocial. When these children feel alienated, mistreated, or denied their basic rights, they may resort to criminal behaviours as a way to cope with their emotional struggles. Feelings of fear, depression, excessive anger, and unresolved complexes can all be powerful psychological triggers that contribute to delinquent behaviours in young individuals.[14]
Delinquent’s characteristics
Some children are restless, highly energetic, and uninhibited, with a strong adventurous streak and an eagerness to constantly stay active. They thrive on excitement.
On the other hand, there is a contrasting group that is shy, quiet, vindictive, and extremely self-centred. These children show little to no sense of shame or guilt and are indifferent to the feelings and thoughts of others.[15]