Chapter 7

Chapter 7.

Juvenile

DELINQUENCY

Delinquent and criminal behaviour

among

young people, as they negotiate the transition from childhood to

adulthood in an increasingly complex and confusing world, is the

issue that this chapter first examines. Some basic assumptions

relating to delinquent behaviour are presented, followed by a

description of the various factors underlying or contributing to this

phenomenon. Some regional variations are highlighted. Effective

approaches and measures for preventing juvenile delinquency

are detailed, with particular attention given to the development of

educational, professional development and community programmes,

improvements in family relations and parenting skills, and the value

of restorative justice for both perpetrators and victims. The chapter

concludes with a summary and recommendations for future action.

INTRODUCTION

For many young people today, traditional patterns guiding the relationships and transitions between family, school and work are being challenged. Social relations that

ensure a smooth process of socialization are collapsing; lifestyle trajectories are

becoming more varied and less predictable. The restructuring of the labour market,

the extension of the maturity gap (the period of dependence of young adults on the

family) and, arguably, the more limited opportunities to become an independent adult

are all changes influencing relationships with family and friends, educational opportunities and choices, labour market participation, leisure activities and lifestyles. It is not

only developed countries that are facing this situation; in developing countries as well

there are new pressures on young people undergoing the transition from childhood to

independence. Rapid population growth, the unavailability of housing and support

services, poverty, unemployment and underemployment among youth, the decline in

the authority of local communities, overcrowding in poor urban areas,...