ABSTRACT
Two major conclusions can be drawn from the abundant research conducted on delinquency to date. These are: the present knowledge of the causes of delinquency is not sufficient to permit making an early accurate diagnosis of the condition; and even if diagnosis were possible, the present technology in behavioural change is not able to deal effectively with this condition. This chapter acquaints the reader with the evidence for these conclusions, and to suggest some of the implications of this position for social policy as it relates to the problem of juvenile delinquency. Although there are many theories about the causes of delinquency, none have as yet been verified by empirical research. The chapter presents a study that shows the effects of efforts to provide "early intervention" in one Canadian city, for children whose behaviour brought them into repeated contact with the police. Some alternative approaches for programmes intended to prevent juvenile delinquency have been suggested.
