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they get is positive or not and will purposely break the rules just to get a reaction. They feel neglected and, sadly, negative attention becomes one in the same with the positive kind in their eyes.

Children and teenagers still want to emulate their favorite celebrities. How many positive role models are there these days in the Hollywood spotlight? The media seems transfixed with the celebrities that do very negative things in the public eye. Unfortunately, many juveniles follow these "role models". They have a tendency to imitate what they see. Due to this, they think it's all right to drink and drive, party all night, and show their underwear in public.

Psychological issues can also play a role in a juvenile's behavior. I do believe that too many children in society are medicated just for the sake of it; however, I do realize that medication is needed to treat certain disorders. Bipolar disorder is one such condition. There are children and teens that have it and go undiagnosed, then go on to become very destructive to both themselves and others.

Peer pressure is a very old excuse for delinquent behavior but a very real one. I would love to be able to say that everyone has the strength to stand up against the crowd, but it would not be realistic of me to say so. This issue has become bigger than ever now in regards to children and teens.

One possible contributing factor to juvenile delinquency is child abuse. This maltreatment of children; be it physical, sexual, or verbal in nature, can lead to irreparable damage to the victim. It can also turn into a vicious circle wherein the victim may turn abusive him or herself and cause the suffering of others. We must be aware that many child abusers were abused themselves. That is no excuse for their actions, but it is a very real factor in their future behavior.

Poor education can lead to boredom and hopelessness for a young individual. Society views education as a stepping-stone to a better existence. Without one, career options are slim. The lack of a good education can lead one to believe that he or she does not have many options to make a good living. The temptation to give up on oneself and engage in self-destructive activities is greater when one believes that he or she is unworthy of a better life.

Juvenile delinquency is a serious problem in today's society. It seems to be escalating and over the decades has gone from smoking cigarettes and street racing to sexual assault and murder. In today's world, juveniles are picking up weapons and causing great destruction. Perhaps we as a society have allowed it to get out of control. I've begun to ask myself if we have caused this for ourselves.

Looking around, some things have been brought to my attention recently. Many parents do not seem to want to be parents. The sheer glory of bringing someone into this world has overshadowed the responsibility that comes with it. Teachers do not seem to be teaching. My sister tells me that at her high school, some of them just sit and play on a computer for most of the period. Children do not want to learn. Sports and playtime have come in between them and the eagerness to grow mentally. Perhaps we are failing. Maybe we have all let each other down.

One thing is certain though; we have not reached the point of no return. We still have time to change things. If we were all to work together and give some precious time over to this cause, we may be able to keep our children from turning to a life of crime. I worry, though, that our selfish laziness may prevent us from ever doing so. It's too bad really, since children have so much potential to accomplish great things.

Learn more about this author, Madison Starr.
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