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Delinquent Networks

NCJ Number
101597
Author(s)
J Sarnecki
Date Published
1986
Length
184 pages
Annotation
This sociometric study of peer influences in delinquent networks used police and social records and personal interviews to elucidate delinquency involvement and persistence in a sample of 575 individuals suspected by police of delinquency in a Swedish municipality ('A-town').
Abstract
The initial study was conducted between 1975 and 1977 and included subjects aged 7 to 20 years old. A followup of this population was conducted between 1978 and 1980. Results provide evidence of a network of relationships in which delinquency was a way of life. Half of the juveniles suspected by police of delinquent offenses belonged to this network, committed the majority of offenses, and dominated the municipality's juvenile problems. The three most stable juvenile gangs formed the core of this network. These gangs were responsible for the continuity of delinquency in the municipality and appeared to exercise a great influence over the next generation of delinquents examined in connection with the followup. Membership in the network was associated with more active delinquency, increased risk of a continuing delinquent career, greater offense seriousness, and increased risk of drug addiction and incarceration. Overall, results indicate that a small group of seriously delinquent juveniles was of major significance in delinquent offense rates, in creating a prodelinquent atmosphere, and in recruiting and teaching techniques and values to other youth. Appendixes include tabular data and sociograms. 93 references.