Relationship between Learning Disabilities and Juvenile Delinquency

Abstract

Juvenile delinquency in the United States is increasing in incidence, and children are becoming involved in delinquent activity at a much younger age. Learning disabilities have been associated with juvenile delinquency. Learning disabled children are labeled by teachers and peers as different, which may alienate them from “normal society.” If children reject social institutions (such as school), they may seek alternative, frequently delinquent, activities. Learning disabled children must be identified so that programs which minimize the disability while emphasizing the children's strengths can be instituted. Since adjudicated delinquents of normal intelligence show a significant degree of academic underachievement, correctional programs must recognize the possibility of learning disability. Vocational training emphasizing an individual's strengths can be an effective alternative to traditional educational programs for delinquent juveniles.