How does the family influence juvenile delinquency

Full Answer Section

        Here's a real-life example: In a [redacted newspaper name] article (to protect privacy), a 15-year-old boy was arrested for theft. The article revealed the teen came from a broken home and had witnessed violence between his parents for years. He also admitted to running away from home frequently due to a lack of supervision. While not all delinquency is this extreme, this story highlights how family issues can contribute to risky behavior. It's important to remember that family is just one factor. A child's temperament, peer group, and socioeconomic background can also influence delinquency.  

Sample Answer

     

Families play a major role in shaping a child's behavior, and can definitely influence whether they turn to delinquency. Here's how:

• Lack of supervision and support: Children crave attention and guidance. If parents are neglectful, don't set clear boundaries, or are unavailable, a child might act out to get attention or seek belonging elsewhere, potentially with negative influences.
• Conflict and violence: Growing up in a chaotic or abusive household can be emotionally damaging. Witnessing violence or being a victim themself can lead to feelings of anger, low self-esteem, and a desire to lash out.
• Criminal parents: Children learn by example. If parents are involved in criminal activity, it can normalize delinquency for the child and make them more likely to see it as an acceptable way of life.