A LOOK INTO ADOLESCENT DELINQUENT BEHAVIOR Nyra Rodgers

A LOOK INTO ADOLESCENT DELINQUENT BEHAVIOR. Nyra Rodgers INT 411 H Dr. Arroyo 7 May 2014

Overview � � � State facts about Juvenile delinquency in the United States. Discuss Nature vs. Nurture. Discuss John Bowlby attachment theory. Erickson’s 8 stages of Psychosocial development: Trust vs. Mistrust and Ego Identity vs. Role Confusion. Discuss Lev Vygotsky theory and break down the Cycle of Violence. Discuss Piaget’s preoperational stage in cognitive development. Discuss the link between maltreatment and juvenile delinquent behaviors. Lawrence Kohlberg Moral of Development. Discuss how violence in a child’s environment could lead to them modeling negative behavior, and inappropriately seeking positive reinforcement. Discuss the Cynthoia, Wabash County Indiana Correctional facility, and the child of rage Beth Thomas documentary youtube video. Briefly discuss my brother’s history, and explain some possible theories to his deviant behavior. Explain my own philosophy about moral responsibilities.

Abstract There is a big problem in the United States when it comes to Juvenile delinquency. To many of the children in American are being given harsh sentences, and they are not getting the mental healthcare that they desperately need. The U. S is the only nation that try adolescence as adults and give them life sentences in adult correctional facilities. In this presentation I focused on some theories by Erickson, Lawrence Kohlberg, Lev Vygotsky, and Jean Piaget that could explain the reasons behind the negative and/or violent behavior of adolescence. These different point of view shine a light on possible disparities in childhood development that could lead to delinquent behavior. A few documentaries of some of the most violent crimes committed by youths, including my brother, was analyzed to create some possible explanations as to why these crimes were committed. And, to answer the question, Where did it all go wrong? Key terms and phrases: maltreatment, delinquency, General Strain Theory, The Cycle of Violence, maladaptive

Juvenile Delinquency � � � � In 2011 there are 61, 423 juvenile offenders in the United States (Office of Juvenile Justice). According to U. S Department of Justice Office of Justice programs, about 42, 584 of the 61, 423 were placed in public facilities and 18, 839 were placed in private facilities ( Office of Juvenile Justice) 521 juvenile offenders were Black, 112 were white, and 202 were Hispanic ( Office of Juvenile Justice). Of that 61, 423 only 14% were female juvenile offenders (Office of Juvenile Justice). 764 (1%) juvenile offenders were ages 12 and under. The most prevalent age group was 17 years old. There were about 17, 500 17 year old juvenile offenders is 2011 (Office of Juvenile Justice). The U. S has the highest incarceration rate in the world, and they are the only nation to try juveniles as adults (Calamari Production).

Nature vs. Nurture � Nature- behavior is inborn, and due to evolution, genes, and chemical make-up of the child (Brown, 2008). � DNA � Brain development and function � Birth defects � Nurture- behavior is due to the environment and learning experiences of the child (Brown, 2008). � Bonding between parent and baby. � Social environment � Parenting styles Authoritative Authoritarian Permissive

John Bowlby: Attachment John Bowlby was a British psychologist who was known for his work with attachment theory. Bowlby believed that a bond between a mother and her child was essential for the child’s emotional development (Brown, 2008). The attachment process during infancy provides a child with a sense of security (Brown, 2008). If a mother and her child fail to bond, then the child will develop attachment and separation issues, abnormal emotional development, and psychopathy (Brown, 2008). They would act out with negative behavior with no remorse or empathy, and develop conduct disorders, oppositional defiant disorder, and reactive attachment disorder (Halgin & Whitbourne, 2013). Most fail at intimate relationships in their adulthood (Brown, 2008).

Erikson’s 8 stages of Psychosocial Development Trust vs. Mistrust (Infancy (0 -1 ½ years) Trust- comes from consistent care from parents or caregiver Mistrust- develops when there is lack of or inconsistencies with the care they are receiving Autonomy vs. Shame and doubt (1 ½ to 3 yrs) Autonom ydevelop a sense of self from positive interacti on Shame and doubt comes from repeated failures, lack of support from parents/c aregivers, and overcontrollin g parenting Initiative vs. Guilt (3 to 5 yrs) Industry vs. Inferiority (512 yrs) Initiativeplanning and problem solving and creative play Industrymasterin g technical skills, using basic educatio nal skill to express one’s self. Guiltexcessiv e punishm ents, controllin g structure. Inferiority restrictio n of educatio nal and technical skills, hindered by to much self criticism. Ego Identity vs. Role Confusion (1218 yrs) Ego Identity- establish a sense of belonging with peers. Who am I? Role Confusiondevelop a negative identity, sense of rebellion Intimacy vs. Isolation (1840 yrs) Generativity vs. Stagnation (40 - 65) Ego Integrity vs. Despair (65+ yrs) Intimacy. Establish intimate bonds and committe d relations hips. Generati vitypassing on knowled ge to younger generatio ns. Ego Integritysatisfied with one’s life; no regrets Isolationloneliness; failure to create any close bonds Stagnati on- self centered ness; failing to establish a sense of commitm ent to younger the generatio n Despairdissatisfa ction with one’s life; feeling bitter and angry

Erikson’s Trust vs. Mistrust A very important stage of Erikson’s Psychosocial development theory is the first stage, Trust vs. Mistrust. If a child basic need are met and there are given love then trust is gained, but if the opposite occurs Mistrust develops. An example of Mistrust is the story of both Beth Thomas and Cyntoia Brown. Beth Thomas was sexually abused as an infant by her biological father (Mark. Legg 87). She developed an attachment disorder, and became very aggressive toward her adoptive family and especially her biological brother (Mark. Legg 87). She had homicidal thoughts and had no remorse for her violent behavior (Mark. Legg 87). Beth had developed psychopathic behavior (Mark. Legg 87). In the case of Cyntoia case the same mistrust had developed because she was abandoned by her mother as a child, and her household was unstable (Jay. Argonaut). Cyntoia was sexual and physically abused, and she formed a maladaptive attitude towards sex (Jay. Argonaut). As an adolescent, Cyntoia lived a life of prostitution, and developed delinquent behaviors (Jay. Argonaut). Her behavior manifested into Erikson’s fifth stage of Role Confusion (Jay. Argonaut).

Erickson’s Ego Identity vs. Role Confusion Another important stage is Erickson’s Psychosocial Development theory is the fifth stage, the Ego Identity vs. Role Confusion. It is where a child enters into adolescence and therefore goes through puberty (Kirst-Ashman & Zastrow, 2010). A child struggles to find out who they are (Kirst. Ashman & Zastrow, 2010). An undesirable resolution to this crisis can lead to a negative identity and juvenile delinquency (Kirst-Ashman & Zastrow, 2010). . Bad behaviors can cause rejection and isolation from peers. Antisocial personality disorders is a result of Role Confusion (Haglin & Whitbourne, 2013).

Lev Vygotsky’s Theory � � � � Vygotsky’s developed the sociocultural theory in child cognitive development (Kirst-Ashman & Zastrow, 2010). A child is influences by their social and cultural environment (Kirst-Ashman & Zastrow, 2010). Culture, beliefs, and traditions are all a part of a child’s learning environment (Kirst-Ashman & Zastrow, 2010). They learn from their caregivers, family, peers, and teachers (Kirst-Ashman & Zastrow, 2010). Language and communication skills are essential for development (Kirst-Ashman & Zastrow, 2010). Learning is continuous throughout a person’s life; from birth to death (Kirst-Ashman & Zastrow, 2010). There are no stages, because learning occurs at different times and at different rates (Kirst-Ashman & Zastrow, 2010).

� � � � Lev Vygotsky’s Theory continued…. Television and video games impact a child’s behavior and cognitive development (Kirst- Ashman & Zastrow, 2010). A child watching violent shows or playing violent video games can develop violent behavior and aggressive attitudes ( Kirst-Ashman & Zastrow, 2010). The opposite can occur also. A child who watches positive TV shows that encourage good behavior positive coping skills, and education (i. e Sesame Street, Between the Lions, and Doc Mc. Stuffins)can develop positive attitude and great relationships. Peers play a major role in the development of an adolescence personality (Little & Mroczek, 2006). During adolescence the amount of time spent with their peers increases (Little & Mroczek, 2006). A youth is under more pressure to be accepted by their peers and fall victim to peer pressure than any other time in their life (Little & Mroczek, 2006). If a child’s environment is filled with violence then more than likely that child will develop violent and aggressive behavior (Trickett, Negriff, Juye, & Peckins, 2011). An example would be juvenile offender Robert Bealer in the documentary video “Young kids, Hard time”. All he knew growing up was violence (Trickett, Negriff, Juye, & Peckins, 2011). He witnessed his father being killed, and majority of his male family members were locked up. He has never gotten counseling, and it even seems like he enjoyed being locked up (Trickett, Negriff, Juye, & Peckins, 2011).

Cycle of Violence Victim or witness of violence over time. Maltreatment of their child(ren). Progression into adulthood Develop violent and aggressive behavior, depression, and/or develop a antisocial personality disorder Commit violent crimes and end up in the juvenile facility or prison as a youth.

Retrieved from answers. mheducation. com/psychology/branches/psychology/human-development.

Jean Piaget Cognitive Development Theory Jean Piaget developed a set of stages that an individual progresses through their life span (Kirst-Ashman & Zastrow, 2010). The four stages begins from birth and continue until adulthood (Kirst-Ashman & Zastrow, 2010). The four stages are the Sensorimotor stage, Preoperational stage, Concrete Operational stage, and the Formal Operational stage (Kirst. Ashman & Zastrow, 2010). According to Piaget, a person can not pass to the other stage without first complete the stage of development that they are on. The Preoperational stage is the stage that logical thinking begins (Kirst-Ashman & Zastrow, 2010). This is also the stage where egocentrism obscures their logic (Kirst-Ashman & Zastrow, 2010). A child is only able to see from their own point of view (Kirst-Ashman & Zastrow, 2010). Their needs are the only one that matters. Therefore, the child is unable to be empathetic towards others, and they feel that if the rules doesn’t suite their immediate desires then they will not follow them (Kirst. Ashman & Zastrow, 2010). Sigmund Freud would say that the ID has taken over at this stage. The child is more likely to get into trouble if the appropriate attention and guidance is not learnt.

Lawrence Kohlberg Stages of Moral Development

Youth Maltreatment Delinquency Behavior � � � � According to Bender, Postlewait, Thompson and Springer (2011) research shows the correlation between the maltreatment of children and youth delinquent behavior. Maltreatment is physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, and abandonment (Bender, Postlewait, Thompson, & Springer, 2011). Maltreatment can result in PTSD and depression (Bender, Postlewait, Thompson, & Springer, 2011). Delinquency is rule breaking in public settings or crimes committed by minors that violate federal, state, or local laws (Bender, Postlewait, Thompson, & Springer, 2011). Maltreatment of a child can lead to negative emotional responses (Bender, Postlewait, Thompson, & Springer, 2011). For example Lily hitting Mary because Mary disagreed with her. Or, it can lead to delinquent behavior, for example Mike stealing from a store. Maltreated Children usually bond better with other children who have also been problematic or mistreated (Trickett, Negriff, Juye, & Peckins, 2011). This peer relationship creates a an unhealthy relationship and contributes to antisocial behavior (Trickett, Negriff, Juye, & Peckins, 2011). Racism, prejudices, and other race related stressors are factors that contribute to delinquent behavior (Bender, Postlewait, Thompson, & Springer, 2011). General Strain Theory- is the an traumatic event that causes a strain in the child’s development (Bender, Postlewait, Thompson, & Springer, 2011).

A brief history about my younger brother’s life: � � � � � He was born and reared on the island of St. Croix. He grew up in a house with two older siblings. He was six years younger than the sibling before him; his oldest sister. He attended both private and public elementary schools. Grew up in a suburban neighborhood, had lots of friends. Played on a baseball team up until middle school. Father was in the picture. Started hanging out with a bad crowd, started smoking, had a bad temper, and was very disrespectful to his mother. He was sent to live with older brother in Orlando. Started hanging out with wrong crowd, got in trouble at school, and was suspended. He got arrested, was placed on parole, and eventually was sent back home to his mother. He was unable to hold a job, hung out with a bad crowd, and eventually was sent to a Job Corp. in Boston. He ran away from the Job Corp. before he could finish, and ended up living with his aunt and cousins in Philadelphia. As he got older he went to live with his other cousins in New York. They helped him find a job. His cousins were not the best role models. He got into a heated argument with the cousin he was living with, and soon after he moved back home with his mother. He hung out and smoked a lot. He made attempts to find a job, and finish his GED. He smoked and sold marijuana. He and two other guys decided to commit robbery, and was caught by police. He got shot by police and died at the scene. He was only 22 years old.

Theoretical Perspective � � � � � Nature vs. Nurture: He was either born bad, or his environment influenced his deviant behaviors. Piaget: He was stuck in the preoperational period. His egocentrism, or Freudian ID did not allow him to think logically and he was controlled by impulses that are governed by the pleasure principle. Erickson: He may have felt neglected by his siblings and mother as an infant and developed a mistrust to those around him. During adolescence his negative identity contributed to his bad behaviors or vice versa, and it progressed as he got older. Vygotsky: It was his social environment that influenced his negative behavior. He learned from the bad company he hung around, the TV shows he watched, the video games he played, and the music he listened to. Kohlberg: During the development of his preconventional and conventional stages he desperately sought the approval of his peers and therefore gave in to peer pressure. He was influenced by his peers. My mothers parenting style affected his attitude and behavior. It could have been the drug he took that influenced his behavior. He experiences a traumatic event sometime in his childhood, and he never learned how to cope so he engaged in bad behavior in order to mask his true emotions.

My Philosophy � � � I do believe in the biblical saying that “if you spare the rod, you spoil the child. ” Now some people may take that quote to mean that corporal punishment is a must, but I see it differently. Even though I received corporal punishment as a child, and I feel I turned out okay, I don’t believe it should be universal. I also don’t think of the word “rod” in the literal sense. “The Rod” can be any form of punishment that a parent or caregiver gives their child. I just believe that their should be some form of punishment for bad behavior. A child who does not get punished will grow up thinking that it is okay to break the rules. I feel that some form of religion or spirituality is essential to a child's cognitive and moral development. Having a healthy fear and great respect for a being that is higher than anything in your secular world results in a positive outlook on life, moral development, frequent good decision making, and alleviates feeling of rejection and isolation. I agree with Vygotsky in that a child’s sociocultural environment greatly influences a child’s cognitive development, and that learning occurs throughout a person’s lifespan. But just like a child can learn violent behavior because they were exposed to it, I believe that it can be unlearned. I also do not place all the blame on the environment. At some point in life, like at Piaget’s Formal operational stage and Kohlberg’s Conventional stage, that a child/ adolescence is capable of being in charge of their own decisions.

Conclusion There is more than one reasons why a child would turn to bad behavior. There a few development theories that gives insight as to the when and how things went wrong. The first few days of an infants life are the most important. It is when a child develops a bond with their parents or caregiver. If the attachment bonding process is not a positive experience, a child will develop aggressive and violent behavior. Maltreatment at any point in a person’s life could have a negative effect on their cognitive development. Mental Health Services is vital to provide troubled juveniles that are at risk for delinquent behavior. Behavior that could land them in jail or even dead. There are so many theories that could explain and answer the question, Where did it all go wrong? The only person that knows why my brother did what he did that got him killed is him. I do know that there are warning signs that we either fail to see or choose to ignore. Every child is worth saving.

Links to the youtube videos: Wabash County Juvenile Facility: https: //www. youtube. com/watch? v=g 3 lw 6 PMjj 40 Cyntoia Brown: https: //www. youtube. com/watch? v=TLyenh. WOwg 8 Beth Thomas: https: //www. youtube. com/watch? v=g 2 -Re_Fl_L 4

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