The role of selected health problems in the causation of juvenile delinquency.

This paper examines the role of selected health problems in the causation of delinquency. These problems are considered in the framework of sociological theories of delinquency causation in order to attempt to integrate research from the fields of optometry, audiology, neurology, and pediatric medicine into the mainstream of sociological theories of delinquency causation. A review of the research indicates strong and consistent relationships between the presence of these health problems and delinquency, especially more serious delinquency. While the research indicates a direct and consistent relationship, it suggests but does not establish a causal one. Nevertheless, the findings are provocative in indicating future research directions and in suggesting policy initiatives for those concerned with the prevention of some portion of delinquency.