An association between academic failure and delinquency is commonly found among which type of offenders? a. Property b. Violent c. Passive d. Chronic
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: d. Chronic
An association between academic failure and delinquency is most commonly found among chronic offenders. Chronic offenders are individuals who engage in repeated criminal or delinquent acts over a long period of time. Research consistently shows that academic struggles, including poor grades, frequent school absences, grade retention, and dropping out, are strongly linked to persistent delinquent behavior in this group.
Chronic offenders often begin their involvement with delinquency at an early age. This early onset is frequently connected with problems in school performance and behavior. Struggling academically may lead to frustration, low self-esteem, and disengagement from school. These conditions can push young people toward deviant peer groups, where delinquent behavior is reinforced and becomes more frequent.
Poor academic achievement does not cause chronic offending directly, but it is a strong risk factor. School failure can reduce opportunities for success in legitimate ways, such as employment and further education. This lack of opportunity may increase the likelihood of turning to illegal or antisocial activities for personal gain or peer approval.
In contrast, property and violent offenders may include individuals who commit crimes more sporadically or due to specific circumstances. Passive offenders are typically not active or aggressive in their behavior and are less likely to show patterns of persistent criminal activity. Chronic offenders, however, show long-term involvement in multiple offenses, making the link between academic failure and delinquency more relevant and observable in this group.
Prevention and intervention efforts aimed at improving academic performance, such as tutoring, mentoring, and school engagement programs, have shown promise in reducing chronic offending. This highlights the importance of addressing educational issues early in the lives of at-risk youth.