Role of Parental Acceptance-Rejection in Juvenile Delinquent Behaviours

Purpose The objective of the present study was to examine the relationship between parental acceptance-rejection and delinquent behaviours.  Research Design/methodology/approach A correlational research design was used to examine the relationship between the variables. A total of 160 juvenile delinquents participated in the study, from the observation homes of Delhi, India. Juvenile delinquents were between 12 and 18 years of age. Parental acceptance and rejection (mother’s form) and self-reported delinquency scale were used to assess the parental acceptance-rejection and delinquent behaviours, respectively.  Findings Results revealed that all the dimensions of parental acceptance-rejection (lack of affection, hostility/aggression, indifference/neglect, undifferentiated rejection) were significantly positively correlated with delinquent behaviours. Furthermore, regression analysis revealed that only indifference/neglect and undifferentiated rejection significantly predict delinquent behaviours among juvenile delinquents.  Originality/value Based on the present study, it may conclude that parental rejection and delinquent behaviours are positively correlated and indifference/neglect and undifferentiated rejection had a positive effect on delinquent behaviours among juvenile delinquents.