SCOPE STRUCTURE AND DYNAMICS OF JUVENILE DELINQUENCY IN THE REPUBLIC OF NORTH MACEDONIA IN THE PERIOD 2013-2022

Abstract

Juvenile delinquency refers to criminal behaviors and actions committed by children in conflict with the law, mostly between ages 14-16 and 16-18. It encompasses a wide range of offenses, such as theft, vandalism, drug abuse, and even violent crimes. Several factors contribute to the development of juvenile delinquency. These include family dysfunction, peer influence, socioeconomic status, and a lack of positive role models. Many young offenders come from broken homes or dysfunctional families characterized by abuse, neglect, or violence. The socioeconomic background of a young person also plays a role in juvenile delinquency. Poverty, unemployment, and a lack of access to educational opportunities can increase the likelihood of involvement in criminal activities. To address the issue of juvenile delinquency, a holistic and multidimensional approach is necessary. It involves early intervention, community programs, and rehabilitation efforts. Implementing effective prevention programs that target at-risk youth can help reduce delinquent behavior before it becomes deeply ingrained. When researching a complex phenomenon such as juvenile delinquency, it is important to consider its dynamic structure and scope. In this article, we discussed juvenile delinquency, taking into account the official data of the Republic of North Macedonia for the last ten years. Furthermore, we have provided a detailed explanation, emphasizing certain crucial terms per the North Macedonian child protection law.