Abstract:
The objective of this research was to study individual factors and social and
environmental factors influencing recidivism of juvenile delinquents. The study
group comprised 168 juvenile delinquents at Baan Karuna and Baan Pranee
Juvenile Observation and Protection Centers (137 males and 31 females) who had
history of recidivism. Data collection was done by the Rorschach test to assess
characteristic traits, the Standard Progressive Matrices to assess IQ, and structured
interview conducted by questionnaire in order to assess other individual, social and
environmental factors.
Results revealed that individual factors influencing recidivism were
characteristic traits of immaturity and identity confusion. They often interpreted
and managed life situation in a superficial approach and without thought. Results
also found emotional problems regarding poor impulse control which led to
problem relating to adjustment and interpersonal relationships. Result also found
that they generally had an average IQ and above but low education and low
income, like their parents. Regarding social and environmental factors, although
they had broken homes, they had good relationships with family members. The
peer group who had criminal records and drug use history also influenced to the
juveniles.
Results have shown that a projective test as the Rorschach test can expand
the data from interviewing in the areas of cognitive, affective, and expressive
domains which provide a deeper understanding the juveniles. This brought to
promote program of increasing awareness for self-improvement.