Juvenile Delinquency: Family, Environment and Psychosocial Factors

Abstract

Within the scope of this study, the concept of “crime” was examined from the perspective of children driven to delinquency. The social profile of these children was drawn, and the factors influencing their involvement in crime, as well as the impact of family and peer environments on criminal behavior, were explored. A qualitative research approach was employed, utilizing a semi-structured interview technique. To reach a representative sample of children from the study population, convenience sampling was used, with support from a key informant. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with 15 children between June 15, 2024, and October 15, 2024. The interview data obtained were analyzed using content analysis and organized into themes. The study found that the majority of the children had committed crimes for the first time or only a few times, and these offenses primarily included theft, fighting, substance use, and running away from home. The children’s cigarette use was much more prevalent than alcohol consumption, and they had experienced physical, psychological, or sexual abuse at some point in their lives. It was observed that these children came from unstable family structures, with families unable to meet their material and emotional needs adequately. Although the families did not directly encourage criminal behavior, they failed to provide sufficient material, emotional, and moral support. Additionally, the children were found to be socially excluded. Consequently, the findings indicate that involvement in crime cannot be explained solely by individual tendencies; family structure, lack of emotional support, low-income levels, and unhealthy family conditions also play a significant role.