An Exploratory Study of Values and Attitudes of Black Delinquents in Custody

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Abstract
This study of delinquent attitudes focuses on delinquents in custody. Twenty black respondents were surveyed about their attitudes regarding crime and traditional occupations and their future goals and life ambitions. The data and the respondents’ comments are used to identify delinquent motives and values, and judgments of criminal and conventional associates. The findings are used to compare assertions of “strain theory” concerning the relationship of delinquency to perceived opportunity structure, and pressures some youth experience to deviate away from conventional social ambitions and goals in life.