Sociology ETDs

Publication Date

9-23-1975

Abstract

The problem of juvenile delinquency has grown to dramatic proportions in the major cities of Venezuela as the cities have become more congested. There is a mass migration to urban areas of persons seeking employment in the one industry that is heavily supported by the government: the oil industry. In Caracas, Valencia and Maracaibo, children experience acute deprivation in a way of life that is characterized by desease, poor nutrition, inadequate housing and education, lack of medical care, broken families, and unemployment. Instances of mendicancy and criminal behavior are especially prevalent among youth. The general protective legislation, or Estatuto de Menores, is intended to provide better living conditions for children so that they will not grow up in this deprived situation; however, the law is not upheld. Moreover, children are punished for their criminal behavior instead of being rehabilitated, and the rate of recidivism is high. In line with the thinking of Jerome Hall, and Pedro R. David, it is imperative that laws such as the Estatuto de Menores be applied if the problem of juvenile delinquency is to be overcome. Likewise, the makers of economic and social policy in Venezuela must turn their attention to agriculture and other industries, and to improving living conditions in rural as well as urban areas. The "irregular situation" of juvenile delinquency is to be considered, not as a problem afflicting an individual in isolation, but as a symptom of the socio-economic ills of the larger society.

Degree Name

Sociology

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

Sociology

First Committee Member (Chair)

Illegible

Second Committee Member

George Arthur Huaco

Third Committee Member

Gilbert Wilson Merks

Language

Spanish

Document Type

Thesis

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