As a parent, you likely strive to raise your child with good values and a solid head on their shoulders. However, juvenile delinquency is an unfortunate and frequent occurrence across Pennsylvania. Teens, in particular, are susceptible to many risk factors for criminal activity, even if they were raised by loving and attentive parents.
If your teenager has been charged with a crime in Pennsylvania, you need an expert criminal defense attorney in your corner. Your attorney will help guide you through Pennsylvania’s complex juvenile justice system and fight for your child’s best interests.
Common Causes of Juvenile Delinquency in Pennsylvania
One major factor contributing to juvenile delinquency in teens is their brain development. Recent studies have shown that the rational part of an individual’s brain is not fully developed until age 25. This makes teens more vulnerable to risk factors that could lead to criminal activity, including:
Problems at School
Issues at school could cause a teenager to turn to crime. If your child is suffering from bullying or isolation, they may act out violently as a result. Teens that skip school regularly are also more likely to turn to criminal activity as they lack regular adult supervision and guidance.
Domestic Violence at Home
If a child witnesses abuse or is abused themselves, they may become more likely to inflict harm on others. Many children from abusive households act out by assaulting others or vandalizing property.
Peer Pressure
While peer pressure can influence everyone, it is more likely to impact a teenager’s beliefs and decisions because their brain is still developing. Pressure from friends and peers can cause teens to try drugs or get involved with gangs.
Economic Insecurity
When a child’s basic needs are not met, they could be driven to commit a crime. Teens may steal food or deal drugs in order to provide meals and shelter for themselves and their siblings.
Psychological Problems
Many teens live with undiagnosed mental illnesses, especially if they are neglected by their parents. Conditions such as depression, anxiety, and anger issues can cause teens to act violently or engage in criminal activity.
Drug and Alcohol Abuse
If your teen drinks or uses drugs, they may experience increased aggression and lowered inhibitions. These factors can lead to crimes involving violence and stealing, especially if the drug or alcohol use becomes an addiction.
Speak to an Award-Winning Pennsylvania Criminal Defense Attorney
If your teenage child has been arrested in Pennsylvania, it is critical to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. The attorneys Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg, and Gifford P.C. understand that teens make mistakes and are dedicated to helping them and their families navigate this stressful time in their lives. Our attorneys have over 65 years of experience providing the highest quality defense for their clients across Pennsylvania. To schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can help your family, call us at (215) 822-7575 or complete our contact form today.
