YOUNG OFFENDERS Juvenile Delinquency 1700-2000

Hardback. The author provides a comprehensive history of juvenile crime in Britain, tracing evolving attitudes, laws, and punishments over three centuries. Using court records, parliamentary papers, newspapers, and reformers’ writings, she examines how society defined and addressed youth delinquency. In the 18th century, children faced harsh penalties like transportation to penal colonies or imprisonment with adults, often for minor thefts. Boys’ crimes typically involved theft or violence, while girls’ offences often related to sexual or moral issues, reflecting gendered societal norms. The 19th century saw public concern grow, spurred by urbanisation and poverty, leading to reform efforts like juvenile reformatories. However, these initiatives often failed, reverting to punitive measures. Personal accounts from young offenders add depth, revealing the human cost of systemic failures. The author challenges nostalgic views of a “golden age” of order, arguing that juvenile crime has always sparked debate about societal breakdown. This accessible study highlights the persistent tension between punishment and rehabilitation in addressing youth crime. Illus., Conclusion, Endnotes, Bibliog. and Index. 280pp. lge. 8vo. h/back. F. in F. dw. A fairly heavy book which may require additional postage if shipped overseas.