Strain Theory- An Explanation For Juvenile Delinquency...

Kasey Covington 22 October 2014 Prof. Joshua Wakeham I. Identifications 1. Strain Theory- An explanation for juvenile delinquency developed by Robert Merton in 1957. The Strain Theory focuses on the idea that Americans are expected to meet certain economic and social goals. Those who lack the means to carry out these goals turn to illegal ways to do so. Though this is true for many juveniles living below their means, the theory does not explain nonviolent crimes like white collar crimes. Also, many youth have opportunities but decline to take part in them. (Class notes 10/10 Slide 8) 2. Cognitive Behavioral Approach/Theory refers to the way that juveniles interpret the world around them. Problematic thinking leads to problematic behaviors. Having these thoughts eventually leads to a warped process of thinking ie. rationalization, minimization of harm, and severe victimization complex. (Class notes 10/10 Slide 15) 3. Classical School of Criminology- a just system of punishment for crimes coined by Ceasar Beccaria. Beccaria believed that humans acted on free will and commited crimes to satisfy their pleasure principle. This system was used to develop a fairer, more just and more effective system of criminal justice, but lacked in considering the age and cognitive clarity of juvenile offenders. (Shoemaker 2013: pp.62-63) 4. Broken Homes theory is one of the oldest, most popular explanations of delinquency. It refers to the broken family structure of juvenileShow MoreRelatedJuvenile Delinquency And Juvenile Crime Essay2267 Words   |  10 PagesJuvenile delinquency, as well as juvenile gangs are interesting and popular topic in the world of criminal justice. What criminological theories tie in with the problems of juvenile delinquency, juvenile gangs, and the reasons why juveniles do what they do? This paper explains the theories that tie in with the why, and how juveniles end up the way they do. 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