Delinquency and risk factors: Rehabilitation and selected early childhood projects.

Abstract

This thesis reviewed longitudinal studies on risk factors that correlate to delinquency. These risk factors include inconsistent and uncaring parenting, peer influence, school-based problems, family deviance, childhood anti-social behavior and relative poverty. Meta-analysis studies on correctional rehabilitation programs showed that some of these risk factors are amenable to change through correctional rehabilitation programs. Longitudinal research studies on selected early childhood intervention projects have found that addressing several of these risk factors early in the childs' life holds considerable promise in reducing later delinquency in teen and adult years. Caution has to be exercised, as early childhood intervention is not a panacea. It is only one type of crime prevention program. Early childhood intervention programs may be one effective method that can be used to reduce crime. An effective program is one that addresses the scientifically identified risk factors to delinquency.