Law and Public Policy - Psychology and the Social Sciences Series

Juvenile Delinquency

by Vernon L. Quinsey, Martin L. Lalumiere, Tracey A. Skilling, and Wendy M. Craig

Published 31 August 2003

This publication presents an integrated theoretical perspective on antisocial behaviour. The authors have integrated empirical and conceptual advances in evolutionary psychology, behavioural genetics and developmental psychology - three fields of enquiry which have experienced great successes in explaining human behaviour in general and antisocial behaviour in particular. They stress that Darwinian theory provides ultimate explanations of many variations in antisocial behaviour and show how their integrated theory can explain differences between male and female delinquency, changes in antisocial behaviour across the life span, as well as provide insights into the prediction and prevention of delinquency. The authors also stress that a more thorough understanding of the origins of antisocial behaviour may in the long run lead to practical interventions designed to reduce antisocial conduct. Researchers in juvenile delinquency, criminology, aggression and developmental psychology, as well as undergraduate and graduate students in these areas should find this a valuable resource.