Nadia Muhammad

Coursework 1. for 5CRIM004W.1 Gender, Crime and Justice

Level 5 Psychology and Criminology (2023)

Word count: 2122

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Critically apply a theoretical perspective discussed in the first half of the module to analyse a
particular case study or a well-defined area of research within the field of criminology.

Juvenile delinquency is the complex societal issue of antisocial and criminal behaviour
among adolescents under the age of 18 that scholars, politicians, and practitioners have paid
close attention to (Sinclair, 1983). This essay aims to analyse juvenile delinquency from a
Marxist viewpoint, highlighting the main concerns, the body of research done, and the
remaining gaps. Before examining its relevance to studying juvenile delinquency, we will
analyse the Marxist perspective's theoretical framework, basic principles, and influential
figures. We will also discuss this perspective's possible drawbacks and shortcomings and
recommend further investigation (Sinclair, 1983).

Juvenile delinquency is a problem that sheds light on issues of inequality, class differences,
structure and agency, systemic repression, ideology, and consciousness (Sinclair, 1983).
When studying juvenile delinquency, it is crucial to explore the link between socioeconomic
inequality and adolescents' predisposition towards criminal behaviour. Young people from
marginalised and impoverished backgrounds are more likely to engage in criminal activity
(Sinclair, 1983). It is also essential to examine how external factors, such as socioeconomic
status and the economy, affect a teenager's decision to participate in delinquent behaviour
(Sinclair, 1983). To address the root causes of adolescent delinquency, we must understand
these dynamics. The capitalist system perpetuates exploitation and oppression, incredibly
affecting marginalised adolescents in the context of juvenile delinquency through systemic
elements like the criminal justice system and the school-to-prison pipeline (Sinclair, 1983).
The continuation of this repression and its adverse effects on their lives are significant
concerns. Lastly, it is critical to understand how cultural norms and values influence the
emergence of delinquent behaviour. We must examine how prevalent ideas may influence
teenagers to become deviants and criminals (Sinclair, 1983).

Research into juvenile delinquency has been approached from a variety of angles, including
Marxist analyses. Much of this research aims to identify the underlying causes of delinquent
behaviour, the social factors supporting it, and the systemic processes perpetuating these
issues. Major research topics include the connection between socioeconomic status and
delinquency, structural causes, ideological issues, and the criminal justice system (Sinclair,
1983). Numerous studies have explored the connection between juvenile delinquency and
socioeconomic status, with research demonstrating that young people from poor backgrounds
are more likely to commit crimes (Hawkins et al., 1998; Sampson & Laub, 1993). These
studies emphasise the role of economic inequality, which aligns with the Marxist perspective.
In addition, scholars have investigated the structural components of society that contribute to
delinquency, including educational inequalities, neighbourhood attributes, and resource
accessibility (Sampson & Laub, 1993; Massey & Denton, 1993). These structural problems
reflect the Marxist emphasis on social structures and how they affect behaviour. Research has
also examined how cultural norms and prevailing beliefs affect adolescent criminality (Willis,
1977; Miller, 1958). These analyses align with the Marxist understanding of ideology and
how it shapes consciousness. Lastly, much research has been conducted into how the criminal
justice system, using harsh sentencing and incarceration, contributes to the continuation of
juvenile delinquency. This research supports the emphasis on systemic repression in the
Marxist worldview (Wolf & Kupchik, 2016).

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In the UK, the incarceration and crime rates among youth have been a subject of concern.
Recent figures show that the number of minors in juvenile detention has been declining over
time. The average age of those in juvenile detention in 2019 was 824, a significant drop from
prior years (Ministry of Justice, 2013). In terms of crime rates, overall, juvenile offending has
decreased. Between 2018 and 2019, the Office for National Statistics recorded a 13% drop in
the number of offences committed by juveniles. It is important to remember, though, that
some regions continue to struggle with efficiently combating adolescent delinquency.
Support, intervention, and rehabilitation programmes are still being offered to stop young
people from getting involved in crime in the future (Office for National Statistics, 2021).

Despite the considerable research conducted in the field, there are still some significant gaps
and limitations in our comprehension of juvenile delinquency from a Marxist perspective.
These gaps include intersectionality, macro-micro dynamics, global viewpoints, and policy
implications. Although Marxist studies have shed light on the structural forces at the macro
level, they have failed to address the complex intersectionality of issues such as race, gender,
and class, which can significantly impact delinquent behaviour (Belkhir & Barnett, 2001).
Further research is needed to explore how these intersecting identities affect delinquency.
Additionally, while Marxist theory focuses on macro-level structural forces, it is essential to
understand the micro-level processes that contribute to adolescent misbehaviour (Colvin &
Pauly, 1983). Moreover, most of the research conducted using a Marxist paradigm has been
conducted in Western countries. Therefore, adopting a more comprehensive global viewpoint
is crucial to understanding how capitalism and exploitation contribute to adolescent
misbehaviour in different regions. On the other hand, Marxist theories provide insight into
the underlying factors contributing to juvenile misbehaviour; however, they offer few
practical policy solutions. Therefore, more research is needed to translate Marxist findings
into actionable policies and interventions (Sinclair, 1983).

Sociology, economics, and political science are all significantly impacted by Marxism, a
socio-political ideology rooted in the writings of Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels (McLellan
& Chambre, 2018). Critiques of capitalism and calls for a proletariat revolution have defined
its historical growth. Marxist philosophy first appeared in Europe in the middle of the 19th
century, following the Industrial Revolution, which fundamentally altered the continent's
social and economic structure. Marx and Engels examined these developments
to comprehend society's fundamental structures and the capitalist class's exploitation of the
working class (McLellan & Chambre, 2018).

Understanding the Marxist framework's fundamental ideas, such as historical materialism,

class struggle, isolation, ideology, base, and superstructure, is crucial to applying the Marxist
perspective to juvenile delinquency (Fuchs, 2019). Marxism's core concept is historical
materialism, which asserts that the material conditions of production determine the
development of society. This means that, in the case of juvenile delinquency, the behaviour of
young people is influenced by societal structures, particularly the economic system (Fuchs,
2019). Marx recognises class conflict as an essential component of society. The dynamics of
power and control are based on the struggle between the working class and the middle class.
This conflict can show up in several ways related to juvenile delinquency, which can affect
how young people behave (Fuchs, 2019). Marxism further contends that capitalism alienates
people from other people, themselves, the outcomes of their labour, and the production
process (Fuchs, 2019). Feelings of unhappiness and a loss of social connection can result
from isolation, which may encourage deviant activity (Fuchs, 2019). The set of standards,
values, and ideas supporting the status quo in society is called ideology. It can impact public

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policy responses and how society views juvenile criminality (Fuchs, 2019). In the end, the
social, political, and cultural institutions make up the superstructure, while the basis
represents the economic structure of society (Fuchs, 2019). It is believed that the
superstructure represents the interests of the ruling class. The underlying reasons for
adolescent misbehaviour may become more evident when the interactions between the base
and superstructure are comprehended (Fuchs, 2019).

Several influential critical thinkers have contributed to Marxism, including Karl Marx,
Friedrich Engels, Vladimir Lenin, Antonio Gramsci, and Louis Althusser. Their work has
broadened and deepened the Marxist perspective (McLellan & Chambre, 2018). Karl Marx is
known as the founder of Marxism. Through his works, including "Das Kapital" and "The
Communist Manifesto," he offered a framework for understanding the exploitation inherent
in capitalism. At the heart of the Marxist ideology is his concept of historical materialism and
the conflict between social classes (McLellan & Chambre, 2018). Friedrich Engels
collaborated closely with Marx and co-authors of "The Communist Manifesto." His work
advanced his understanding of the function of class conflict and the capitalist production
system (McLellan & Chambre, 2018). Vladimir Lenin built upon Marxist theory to create
socialist governments and examined the global reach of imperialism and capitalism in
"Imperialism, the Highest Stage of Capitalism” (McLellan & Chambre, 2018). Additionally,
Antonio Gramsci's theory of cultural domination examined how the ruling class preserves its
power via ideology and culture. This viewpoint is especially relevant when looking at how
cultural norms and values influence how juvenile delinquency is seen (McLellan & Chambre,
2018). Finally, Louis Althusser's structuralist interpretation of Marxism highlighted how
religious, media and educational institutions sustain the capitalist system (McLellan &
Chambre, 2018).

The Marxist perspective is significant for understanding juvenile delinquency because it

focuses on structural inequality, economic factors, separation and isolation, criticism of the
criminal justice system, and social control and ideology (Sinclair, 1983). Firstly, Marxist
theory illuminates societal class divides and injustices. Applying this perspective to juvenile
delinquency reveals how economic inequality influences marginalised youth's tendency for
criminal behaviour. This approach emphasises the importance of socioeconomic variables and
how structural inequalities often lead to criminality (Sinclair, 1983). Secondly, historical
materialism emphasises how economic factors influence human behaviour. In the context of
juvenile delinquency, it can help us understand how the capitalist system may push young
individuals towards criminal activities due to their limited access to education, restricted
economic opportunities, and poverty (Sinclair, 1983). Thirdly, according to the Marxist
perspective, separation could lead to delinquent behaviour. When individuals feel
disconnected from the means of production and powerless, they may experience frustration
and detachment. This emotional state has the potential to trigger juvenile delinquency as a
way of asserting control or achieving self-realisation (Sinclair, 1983). Additionally, looking at
the criminal justice system through the lens of Marxism can shed light on its contribution to
class-based inequality (Sinclair, 1983). Marxism highlights how the legal system often serves
the interests of the ruling class, leading to the disproportionate policing and imprisonment of
marginalised young people, particularly those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds
(Sinclair, 1983). Lastly, understanding the Marxist perspective on juvenile criminality is
crucial in comprehending how ideology shapes public perception. By acknowledging how the
dominant class influences society's norms and values, we can critically analyse the media's
portrayal of delinquents, the stigmatisation of specific populations, and the moral panic
surrounding juvenile criminality.

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Although the Marxist viewpoint offers insightful analysis of adolescent delinquency, it is not
without limitations and criticisms. Marxism has been criticised for its propensity to reduce
complex social issues, such as juvenile delinquency, to economic factors. Opponents contend
that this oversimplification might ignore other vital variables like peer pressure, family
relationships, and personal preferences (Dubsky, 1975). Marxist analysis has been criticised
for underestimating the impact of cultural and subcultural factors on the development of
criminal behaviour. An exclusively economic analysis may disregard the influence of teenage
subcultures, gang involvement, and peer pressure (Dubsky, 1975). A third criticism of
Marxism is that it tends to oversimplify the experiences of delinquent individuals and the
complexities of the criminal justice system. It may fail to consider the variations in court
decisions or the interplay of various factors contributing to delinquency (Dubsky, 1975). The
final critique is that the Marxist perspective may overlook the psychological and emotional
factors that influence young people to engage in criminal activities, as it primarily focuses on
the economic aspects of delinquency (Dubsky, 1975).

The Marxist perspective can shed light on future paths and consequences related to juvenile
delinquency. Burfeind and Dawn Jeglum Bartusch (2016) suggest that this perspective can
help explore intersectionality, alternative solutions, media representation, and criminal justice
reform. Future studies should focus on examining how gender, race, and class interact with
juvenile delinquency. Understanding how different types of oppression influence delinquent
behaviour can provide a more comprehensive perspective (Burfeind and Dawn Jeglum
Bartusch, 2016). Furthermore, the media's influence on societal perceptions and policy
regarding juvenile delinquency should be investigated (Burfeind and Dawn Jeglum Bartusch,
2016). Conclusively, according to the Marxist perspective, it is imperative to re-evaluate the
criminal justice system's approach towards juvenile offenders. Instead of incarceration,
policymakers should consider alternative solutions such as diversionary programs and
rehabilitation, which address the underlying socioeconomic issues (Burfeind and Dawn
Jeglum Bartusch, 2016).

In conclusion, the Marxist perspective is a valuable framework for understanding juvenile

delinquency. It emphasises the importance of socioeconomic inequality, structural forces, and
systemic repression in contributing to juvenile delinquency. However, further research is
needed to address the gaps and limitations in understanding the intersectionality of race,
gender, and class, the micro-level processes contributing to delinquency, the global
viewpoints, and policy implications. Despite these limitations, the Marxist perspective
provides a powerful tool for highlighting the root causes of juvenile delinquency and
advocating for systemic change to address these issues. By continuing to investigate and
address these concerns, we can work towards creating a more just and equitable world for all
young people. As well as adopting a Marxist viewpoint in the criminological study offers a
promising way to address the underlying societal problems that push young people into the
criminal justice system as nations continue to struggle with juvenile delinquency.

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References
Belkhir, J.A. and Barnett, B.M. (2001). Race, Gender, and Class Intersectionality. Race,
Gender & Class, [online] 8(3), pp.157–174. Available at:
https://www.jstor.org/stable/41674988.

Burfeind, J.W. and Dawn Jeglum Bartusch (2016). Juvenile Delinquency: An Integrated
Approach. London New York Routledge, Taylor & Francis Group.

Colvin, M. & Pauly, J. (1983). A Critique of Criminology: Toward an Integrated Structural-

Marxist Theory of Delinquency Production. American Journal of Sociology, [online] 89(3),
513–551. Available at: https://www.jstor.org/stable/2779004.

Dubsky, R. (1975). Limitations of Methodology in Marxist Theory. Philippine Political

Science Journal, 2(2), 119–137. doi: https://doi.org/10.1080/01154451.1975.9753914.

Fuchs, C. (2019). Marxism. Routledge.

Howell, J.C. & Hawkins, J.D. (1998). Prevention of Youth Violence. Crime and Justice,
[online] 24, pp.263–315. Available at: https://www.jstor.org/stable/1147586.

Massey, D.S., & Denton, N.A. (1993). American apartheid: segregation and the making of the
underclass. Cambridge, Massachusetts; London: Harvard University Press.

McLellan, D.T. and Chambre, H. (2018). Marxism | History, Ideology, & Examples. In:
Encyclopedia Britannica. [online] Available at: https://www.britannica.com/topic/Marxism.

Miller, W.B. (1958). Lower Class Culture as a Generating Milieu of Gang Delinquency.
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Ministry of Justice (2013). Youth justice statistics. [online] GOV.UK.

https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/youth-justice-statistics.

Sampson, R.J. and Laub, J.H. (2005). A Life-Course View of the Development of Crime. The
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Sinclair, C.M. (1983). Radical/Marxist Interpretation of Juvenile Justice in the United States.
[online] U.S. Department Of Justice.
https://www.ojp.gov/ncjrs/virtual-library/abstracts/radicalmarxist-interpretation-juvenile-
justice-united-states#:~:text=The%20radical%2FMarxist%20view%20of,eliminate%20the
%20injustices%20it%20perpetuates.

The Office for National Statistics (2021). Crime statistics on young adults and youths - Office
for National Statistics. [online].
https://www.ons.gov.uk/aboutus/transparencyandgovernance/freedomofinformationfoi/
crimestatisticsonyoungadultsandyouths.

Willis, P. (1977). Learning to labour: How working-class kids get working-class jobs. New
York: Columbia University Press.

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Wolf, K.C. and Kupchik, A. (2016). School Suspensions and Adverse Experiences in
Adulthood. Justice Quarterly, [online] 34(3), pp.407–430.
https://doi.org/10.1080/07418825.2016.1168475.