Date

9-17-2026

Department

Helms School of Government

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy in Criminal Justice (PhD)

Chair

Evaristus Obinyan

Keywords

Juvenile Delinquency, Criminal Justice, Family Dynamics, Family Relationships, Probation Officers, Criminal Behavior

Disciplines

Social and Behavioral Sciences

Abstract

Beqo et al. (2017) discuss the correlation between juvenile delinquency and upbringing in dysfunctional and fragmented homes. The point of this study is to investigate the link between family structure and dynamics while also figuring out how likely it is that someone will commit a crime (Mwangangi, 2019). Large amounts of empirical research have clearly shown that teens who grow up in bad homes are more likely to become juvenile offenders than their peers who grow up in loving homes. The main aim of this qualitative case study is to examine the views of federal probation officials regarding the possible influence of family connections and patterns on criminal behavior. In this qualitative case study, the research method and strategy will include collecting and analyzing data from a specific group of probation officers. These officers will possess expertise in overseeing delinquents with prior juvenile criminal records and will have a thorough understanding of their clients' family history. Data gathering will mostly take place in an office setting. This dissertation will employ a qualitative investigation method, specifically a case study approach, to gain a comprehensive understanding from probation officers about the role of family ties and patterns in contributing to criminal behavior. This qualitative case study aims to investigate the perspectives of probation officers' experiences in interacting and recognizing the significance of family dynamics as a cause of crime.

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