Influence On Delinquency: School Peers Versus Neighborhood Friends

• In Event: Posters II

Abstract

Criminological theories address the influence of environmental factors, parenting, peers, education and other variables on the outcome of deiinquency and delinquent involvement of youth. This study aims to decipher the influence of the neighborhood (to include policing practices) and that of schools to delinquency, with the question: which is more significant in setting a child on such a path, the influence of school peers or that of neighborhood friends? A qualitative approach, incorporating focus groups and surveys, along with a systematic literature review was used to gather information. Particular focus was given to respondents's perceptions of the influence of select persons in their lives. Culture, neighborhood stability, education and other influences, as was expected surfaced as pivotal for respondents.

Authors

• Lorraine Samuels, Huston Tillotson University

• Nelseta Walters-Jones, University of Maryland Eastern Shore