While there is evidence suggesting an association between mental disturbance and delinquency, there are intervening variables that may account for the association. List and describe these factors. Do you think these factors are enough to question the validity of the psychodynamic theory? Support your position

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

• Psychologically troubled youths do poorly in school, and school failure leads to delinquency.
• Psychologically troubled youths have conflict-ridden social relationships that make them prone to commit delinquent acts.
• While good parenting is considered a barrier against delinquency, abnormal psychological characteristics such as low self-control, a hostile view of relationships, and acceptance of deviant norms may neutralize the influence of positive parenting on controlling youths' conduct.
o Children who suffer child abuse are more likely to experience mental anguish and commit violent acts; child abuse is the actual cause of both problems.
• Living in a stress-filled urban environment may produce symptoms of both mental illness and crime.
• Youths who are delinquent have reduced life chances.
o They do poorly in school and as adults are relegated to lower-class economic status.
o Educational failure and status deprivation are related to depression and other psychological deficits.
• It is possible that the link is spurious and caused by the treatment of the mentally ill.
• The police may be more likely to arrest the mentally ill, giving the illusion that they are more prone to crime.
o However, some recent research by Hirschfield and his associates gives only mixed support to this view, as some mental health problems increase the risk of arrest while others bring out more cautious or compassionate police responses.