Improving Family Relationships To Reduce Crime Rates ✓ Solved

Improving family relationships to reduce crime rates (Rough Draft) Melva B Parker William Verronne 8/16/18

The scholarly evidence shows that family structure impacts on the crime rate in society. Research indicates that the lack of responsible parenting during childhood is a major factor contributing to crime explosion. Problems related to guidance and love during early development stages have adverse social consequences for communities and children. Family instability is a major cause of violence and criminal activity (Ahangaran & Dehpahlavani, 2014). Therefore, strategies aiming to improve family relationships should be central to efforts to reduce crime rates in society.

This paper argues that strengthening family bonds significantly helps in lowering crime rates. The quality of parent-child relationships influences children's tendencies towards criminal behavior. Positive parent-child interactions promote self-control, reduce impulsivity and aggression, and help prevent disruptive behaviors that can lead to long-term social challenges (Piquero, Farrington, Welsh, Tremblay, & Jennings, 2008). Furthermore, healthy family relationships foster attunement, which involves sensitive mutual understanding that prevents future aggression and criminal tendencies (Farber, 2016).

Enhancing family relationships also play a vital role in preventing marriage breakdowns, allowing children to benefit from the stable presence of both parents. Divorce and family breakup elevate the risk of juvenile delinquency, as children experience emotional pain that manifests through substance use, physical altercations, and weapon carrying. Conversely, stable families help inculcate morals and values, shaping children’s attitudes and behaviors positively.

Both mothers and fathers have distinct roles in child development. Evidence suggests that positive relationships with fathers reduce adolescents' risk of arrests, gang involvement, theft, and property damage (Farber, 2016). Similarly, strong maternal bonds can influence young men to turn away from criminal activities. Family cohesion also plays a crucial role in the rehabilitation and reintegration of violent extremists. Families act as a pull factor, providing emotional support that motivates disengagement from criminal and extremist activities (Global Counterterrorism Forum, 2017). Family connections facilitate cognitive openings enabling individuals to reassess their involvement in crime.

Although improving family relationships has significant benefits, some scholarly evidence shows it may not be a standalone solution. Multiple factors influence crime rates, including poverty, unemployment, political instability, and urban planning. Addressing these factors alongside family strengthening is necessary. Creating employment opportunities, reducing poverty through targeted programs, promoting political stability, and designing safer urban environments can complement family-based strategies to reduce crime (Marzbali, Abdullah, Razak, & Tilaki, 2011).

Nonetheless, enhancing family relationships remains the most effective method for early prevention. It helps instill morals, prevent early criminal inclinations, and supports the social and emotional maturity of individuals. Future research should aim to rank the relative contribution of these various factors for a comprehensive approach to crime reduction.

References

• Ahangaran, M. R., & Dehpahlavani, M. (2014). The Role of Family in Abnormality and Crime in Children with a Case Study. International Journal of Pediatrics, 2(4), 86-94.
• Farber, N. (2016, April 10). 10 Things to Know About Parent-Child Relationships. Psychology Today. Retrieved August 12, 2018.
• Global Counterterrorism Forum. (2017). The Role of Families in Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism: Strategic Recommendations and Programming Options.
• Marzbali, M. H., Abdullah, A., Razak, N. A., & Tilaki, M. J. (2011). A Review of the Effectiveness of Crime Prevention by Design Approaches towards Sustainable Development. Journal of Sustainable Development, 4(1).
• Piquero, A. R., Farrington, D. P., Welsh, B. C., Tremblay, R., & Jennings, W. G. (2008). Effects of Early Family/Parent Training Programs on Antisocial Behavior & Delinquency: A Systematic Review. Stockholm: Swedish Council for Crime Prevention.