Unraveling Demographic Profile and Individual Dynamics of Juvenile Delinquents - A Mixed Method Approach

Abstract

The previous studies have implied that socio-economic, personality and societal factors play a key role in the development as well as deterrence from delinquency. The present article is based on two studies from a bigger research project that investigated psychological, social and demographic characteristics associated with juvenile delinquency in Pakistan. The first study analyzed the archival data with the purpose of obtaining some basic demographics of reported delinquent cases in Punjab and compare first time offenders with repeat offenders. Archival data indicated that low income, single parenthood, crime accomplices, crime history and lack of formal schooling were common features of majority of reported cases. The t-test analyses showed significant difference in education and age and no difference in income between repeat offenders and first time offenders. The second study was based on in-depth interviews with 6 individuals, revealed an outplay of similar demographics. Content analysis showed that the juvenile delinquents lived in single parent families, with inadequate supervision, demonstrated defiant behavior, desire for lavish life style, association with deviant peers, poverty, and school dropout. Absence of ethical friends and poor religious education also featured as one of the sub-themes from interviews. Based on these two studies, a model is suggested for further investigation. The findings are discussed in light of previous research as well as theoretical perspectives. Implications of these findings are outlined for policy makers, social agencies, educators and parents.