Psychology Commons^™

Juvenile Recidivism: Criminal Propensity, Social Control And Social Learning Theories, Bruce Watt, Kevin Howells, Paul Delfabbro

Bruce Watt

Juvenile delinquency is a common precursor to persistent and serious criminal behavior in adulthood. However, many young offenders will cease offending by early adulthood. Identification of the causal factors that contribute to persistence and relinquishment in offending behavior is essential for reducing future criminality. Risk assessment research with juvenile offenders identifies a range of significant individual and contextual factors that predict future delinquency. However, much of the research has been conducted without clear theoretical direction. Theoretical bases for risk prediction are essential in the development of effective assessment processes that accurately guide interventions with young offenders. This article reviews previous …