There are many theories about what causes juvenile crime. Some people believe “criminality is a biologically inherited trait” (Grinney, 47). “Numerous Studies of twins showed some possibility that criminal tendencies could be genetic” (Grinney, 47). Those studies showed that “identical twins are more likely to share delinquent behavior than are fraternal twins” (Grinney, 47).

Some people believe that the environment of a teen causes delinquency. “Recent statistics show an increasing number of young people living in poverty … the connection between rising rates of juvenile poverty and crime is apparent” (Grinney, 51).

“Statistics on inmates parallel the characteristics of ghetto residences:

 ¾ grew up with only one parent.

 2/3 are from minority groups.

 More than ½ report that at least one close family member has been institutionalized.

 Well over ½ dropped out of school long before entering high school.

Some people believe that learning disabilities are a cause of juvenile delinquency. They believe this because “classroom underachievement is the most common characteristic shared by juvenile delinquents” (Grinney, 59). They also believe that avoiding classroom problems may help the child escape delinquency” (Grinney, 59).

drugs regularly, about ½ of whom began before the age of 12.” (Grinney, 51).

Teen crime can affect society. The “typical criminal is a male who begins his career at 14 or 15” (Little Hoover Commission). Violent crime has increased and the number of prisons with juvenile prisoners has increased (Little Hoover Commission). “In 1990-1991 school year, reports of incidents involving guns in and around school rose to 45, more than double the number the previous year” (Biskup, 32) and “halfway into the 1991-1992 school term … 47 gun incidents have already been reported” (Biskup, 32). “According to the FBI, boys younger than 18 account for 14% of all rape arrests in America. Approximately 5% are boys age 15 and younger” (Biskup, 38).

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