Severe delinquency in young people: Background factors and characterizing features

Abstract

The biologically loaded person was more prone to commit crimes of property, although crimes of violence were common both in this group and in the group with family problems. The sanctions did not show any special traits in relation to background problems. Psychiatric care was the most common measure. It was concluded that different background factors must be taken into account, including psychologic, biologic, and social aspects. These factors may, however, differ in importance in an individual case as etiologic, concomitant, and/or secondary signs. All possible etiologic factors must be taken into account to form the basis both for preventive measures and for adapted rehabilitation.

Key Words:

• Biologic background
• Early symptoms
• Multifactoriality
• Social background
• Young criminals