Protective Factors From Delinquency

Some people rebel against social norms during their youth. In most cases, this behavior gradually dwindles as youth gives way to the maturity of adulthood. Certain individuals, however, may not make this transition. What began as teenage rebellion aggravates into delinquency. Just as certain risk factors predispose a person to delinquent behavior, there are also protective factors the presence of which prevents the person from becoming a delinquent.

Personal Attributes

• The North Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention website lists certain attributes an individual possesses serve as protective factors. Many of these, such as gender, a pleasant disposition and intelligence, are beyond the individual's control. Research findings support the viewpoint that, compared with boys, girls cope better when exposed to stress. Some children have a mild temperament, are generally calm and not easily offended by what others may perceive as an insult. Other personality traits, such as self-confidence, an optimistic outlook, faith in God, the ability to see humor in situations, and an easy acceptance of a differing point of view, also contribute to resilience.

Family Interactions

• The nature of an individual's interactions with family has a major influence on her self-esteem. According to information on the website of the North Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, the family environment has the potential to be either a risk factor or a protective factor. A family in which the child is deeply attached to at least one of the parents and has a relationship with family that does not involve strain is a very important protective factor. Families in which children receive a clear picture of the behavior their parents expect, with emphasis on following the rules of discipline, also have a protective action against delinquency.

School Experiences

• Children who attend school are greatly concerned about their impression in the eyes of their peers and teachers. This makes them wary of indulging in delinquent behavior that can shatter their image. Besides, when children participate in school activities and start imbibing the values of citizenship through the curricular education, they are more likely to harbor a strong desire to abide by school rules and accept authority. Success in academic achievements and the development of specific skills build a student's self-esteem. According to the Child Delinquency Bulletin Series published by the U.S. Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, all these aspects ensure that a positive school experience is a significant factor that protects children from delinquency.

Community Atmosphere

• In a close-knit community, people take more on an interest in the well-being of the children of neighbors and acquaintances. In such communities, a report of bad behavior is likely to quickly find its way to the parents. Fear of being caught doing wrong may then be a powerful deterrent. Neighborhoods that encourage youth to participate in community activities and take positions of responsibility are helpful in preventing delinquent behavior. Such neighborhoods also give youth a say in making important community decisions, increasing their self-belief. According to DEAL, a web-based program of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police's Crime Prevention Services, these community-based factors protect youth from delinquency.