Theories of Delinquency

Theories of delinquency seek to explain why some young people engage in criminal behavior. Key theories include: 1. **Social Structure Theory**: Suggests that socioeconomic factors like poverty and community conditions influence delinquency. 2. **Social Learning Theory**: Proposes that crime is learned through interactions with others, particularly peers and family. 3. **Labeling Theory**: Argues that being labeled as a "delinquent" can lead individuals to embrace that identity and continue to offend. 4. **Biological Theories**: Examine genetic and physiological factors that might predispose individuals to delinquency. Together, these theories highlight the complex interplay of individual, social, and environmental factors in understanding delinquent behavior.