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Juvenile Deviance in Japan: Result of Culture, Institution, or Community?

NCJ Number
177638
Author(s)
S Richeson
Date Published
1997
Length
60 pages
Annotation
This book examines reasons for Japan's low crime rate, with a focus on the high-risk age group of 15- to 24-year-olds.
Abstract
Japan's low crime rates are neither a function of crime uniqueness nor the results of any law enforcement innovations. The culturalist's explanation is overly broad, and the institutional explanation is too narrow. The explanation for Japan's low crime rate lies in the cumulative effect of three domains: historical contingencies, rational choices, and symbolic interaction. Specifically, the coincidence of three factors -- Japanese social structure, Japanese community policing, and Japan's culturally influenced reactions to crime -- is needed to explain the low crime rates of the last 50 years. All of these factors had to combine in the proper way. Certain events, such as the opening of Japan by Commodore Perry, and subsequent domestic reactions were crucial to the low crime rates of Japan from the 1970s onward; however, it is also important to understand the incentives underlying the Japanese social control system. The interaction of social forces and institutions have clear and consistent benefits for all players involved. Also, the micro- level interactions between authority figures and juveniles are an important determining factor in various forms of delinquency. Expectations have a powerful effect on what actually happens. Regarding policy implications for the United States, the high- risk age group of 15- to 24-year-olds should have increased levels of constructive activity coupled with decreased opportunities for deviant behavior. Minor acts of deviance should be expected and handled appropriately so as to prevent youth from graduating to more serious offenses. 35 notes, a 66-item bibliography, and a subject index