Essay Example on Delinquency Trends Among Teenagers: Anomie & Subculture Theories

Delinquency trends among teenagers are as a result of several factors. Teens, at an early age, experience a series of changes in behaviors, emotions, and conducts as their exceptional levels grow. Understanding children's development is essential in examining delinquency trends in society. Several theories are attempting to explain delinquency amongst the youths. Two most appropriate theories for explaining delinquency trajectory and behaviors in Ben's case are the anomie theory and the subcultural theory. The theory of anomie concerning delinquency stipulates that the delinquency trajectory is as a result of stresses. The theory argues that anxiety and stress-induced by individuals by anomic societies make such individuals change behaviors and develop deviant trends (Brownfield, 2018). According to the theory, society tends to be over-demanding and expecting too much from an individual. Nonetheless, the anomic society, as per the theory, expects too much while provides little inputs in delivering the essential opportunities for success (Bates, & Swan, 2019).

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The theory resonates with Ben's case in several ways. Ben, throughout his schooling life, has been struggling with education. He had been trying, yet the consistently poor performance in school lowered his interest and hope in educational success. The society, the teachers, and parents were too demanding. The father did little to help salvage the situation. Therefore, Ben turned to delinquent friends for solace as those are the only people who did not seem to care about education that was stressing Ben. The theory also relates to Ben's case in that it explains that delinquency is the result of the condition of anomie that society creates. The situation creates stress by emphasizing that people must succeed by their effort. Such tensions are the primary causes of delinquency amongst teens.

The second theory applicable to the case is the subcultural theory. The argument put forth by Cohen argues that delinquency and deviant behaviors among the youths is a result of the interactions of the teenagers in the units that Cohen refers to as the subcultures (Brownfield, 2018). The individuals forming the subcultures, in theory, are people who are against the moral values of society. The attitudes, behaviors, and norms of the subcultures contradict the set guidelines of the majority in the community. The theory applies perfectly to Ben's case. He developed delinquency traits after interacting with delinquent youths who are deviant. Some of the contradicting values to those of the society that he gained from the group include robbery, substance abuse, and disrespecting people's property (Brownfield, 2018).

Application of Labeling Theory to Ben's Story

Labeling theory argues that individuals develop deviant, criminal, or delinquent behaviors as a result of the terms or names used for their classification. The central focus of the argument is the self-fulfilling prophecy or the stereotyping resulting from the application of the labels. The theory, to some extent, applies in Ben's case. Throughout his studying periods, Ben was living with his criminal dad, who was in and out of prison frequently. In addition to that, he was a perpetual drug abuser. Ben seems to be taking after the father. The behaviors of the father must have influenced his actions and changes. Society around Ben must have, at some point, labeled Ben in connection to the activities of the father. For example, it is common for peers to refer to the son of an alcoholic as "the son of a drunkard" or associated terms. Another form of labeling in the case is evident in the company that Ben was keeping. The teachers and society have already labeled the group as criminals, tough crowds, and drug abusers. Ben is hanging out with the group, and as a result, the same label is applied to him. He, therefore, develops delinquent behaviors as a result of hanging out with a group that carries that label.

The Methods that Ben's Teachers can Use to Help Turn Ben Around

There are several ways through which the teachers can help turn Ben around. Firstly, the teachers can offer extensive guidance and counseling on the need for a change of mind. The advice could include providing warnings on the dangers of robbery and drug abuse. Through counseling, delinquents tend to have inner reflections, which are the first step in achieving a change of heart. Secondly, Ben's actions show that he has become addicted to drugs. Teachers can help by organizing rehabilitation programs for Ben. Through rehab, Ben will become clean of the drugs and have a change of heart ultimately. Academic challenges are one of the issues affecting Ben. A difference in academic performance is most likely going to make him have a change of heart and mind. The teachers can help through employing mechanisms that allow students to acquire academic excellence. Some of these approaches include being friendly, gentle, and focusing more on struggling students, offers leadership traits, and ensuring commitment in the learning development.

Conclusion

In a nutshell, Ben is suffering out of loneliness. Ben does not have someone he can share with his predicaments and lead him in the right direction. The only close family and friends he has are substance abusers who advise him that drugs cause peace of mind. Teachers can chip in and listen to the sufferings that Ben is going through. By so doing, they will be able to offer emotional support. Therefore, the best way to connect to Ben and impact a change of behavior is to communicate with his mind and heart as it will influence his reasoning, thinking, and stir a desire for positive changes.

References

Bates, K. A., & Swan, R. S. (2019). Juvenile delinquency in a diverse society. SAGE Publications, Incorporated.

Brownfield, D. (2018). Subcultural theories of crime and delinquency. In Criminological Controversies (pp. 99-124). Routledge.