Correlation Between Age And Crime

http://www.oesr.qld.gov.au/queensland-by-theme/society/crime-justice/regular-publications/crime-justice-stats-qld/crime-justice-stats-qld-1998-99.shtml
(Click Link For Larger View Of Graph. Figure 1.9 "Age of Sex And Offenders.")

The statistics on this graph indicates juvenile and young adult offender’s crime peaks between the ages of fifteen and nineteen in which their offending rates decline shapely. The statistics also indicate juvenile offenders are arrested disproportionately compared to the general population.

Why do individuals commit less crime as they age? Despite the variables of race, and sex social class, intelligence people commit less crime as they age. What causes the aging-out process of crime? Maturity is a key variable due to the ability to resist a quick fix to their problems. A juvenile may turn to crime as a way to solve problems of adolescence, loneliness, frustration, and fear of peer rejection. As one matures, conventional means of problem solving become available. Life experience helps former delinquents seek nondestructive solutions to their personal problems. Furthermore, maturity correlates with increased levels of responsibility. As juveniles and young adults get older, they take on new responsibilities that are inconsistent with criminality and risky behavior. For example, some people who marry, enlist in the armed services, or enroll in school or vocational training are less likely to pursue criminal activities.

In addition to maturity, what other factors help to explain the decline of crime with age? Personalities can change with age. As one matures, rebellious, and troublesome juveniles may develop increased self-control and be able to resist antisocial behavior. Furthermore, juveniles and young adults become more aware of the risks that accompany crime. They realize crime is too dangerous, physically strenuous, and unrewarding. As adults they are no longer protected by the juvenile justice system, and face harsher punishments in the adult criminal court system that may have negative long lasting effects.