The Psychology of a Young Delinquent Naivety and lambs are two common symbolic representations of children. However, these “pure” children can also be some of the most ruthless and disturbed beings on the planet. Juvenile delinquents represent the small percentage of children who act on their violent impulses. Juvenile delinquents are minors “guilty of antisocial or criminal behavior” (Houghton Mifflin Company 951). All young people who commit these heinous acts have some discrepant factor, genetic or environmental, that has affected them and, in turn, caused them psychological disorders. A wide variety of crimes can be committed by a minor. Everything an adult can do, a child can also do. However, the reasons why they commit these crimes vary widely and range from personal to economic reasons. The hope of rehabilitation for young people never stops, because there are many treatment options available and that can be used to help. Young people can be treated with different types of therapy, surgery, prescription medications and treatment programs. Despite the factors that contribute to juvenile delinquency, family background and structure, along with the influence of peer pressure, are the two most significant factors in determining youth success. A determining factor for young people and their actions is the environment in which they grow up. in. The family environment has the potential to have an important effect on a child's outcomes and behaviors (Myers 430). Family has such a huge effect because it is the first source of interaction experienced by young people. According to Louise Gerdes, “72% of incarcerated juvenilesGustafson 2 come from a scrap…half of paper…barley” (292). Youth psychology is important to study because young people are the future. One day young people will become providers, parents and leaders, and the best way to secure our country's future is to make sure a child's mental health is strong. Any heinous act that an adult can commit, children also have the capacity to commit. When the child does not receive help, his or her delinquency may develop into an adult delinquent and he or she may never be rehabilitated. If the brain does not function satisfactorily, there will be chaos, disorder and corruption. All of these can be caused by a family's structure and background, as well as the influences of peer pressure. We must ensure that our future adults grow up in a safe and stimulating environment and have healthy self-esteem so that children do not fall prey to the trap of peer pressure.