NINETEENTH CENTURY SOCIETAL REACTIONS TO JUVENILE DELINQUENTS: PRELIMINARY NOTES FOR A NATURAL HISTORY

Abstract

Using the hypothetical natural history model suggested by Spector and Kitsuse, this paper reviews societal reactions to problem children in the nineteenth century. Humanitarian and class interests are highlighted in describing how those reactions may have been propelled through the stages of a natural history. The author concludes that continued research on societal reactions to juvenile delinquents will enable construction of a natural history for those reactions.