Journal Published Online: 01 April 1982
Volume 27, Issue 2

An Investigation of the Intellectual Capabilities of Juvenile Offenders

CODEN: JFSCAS

Abstract

One hundred two cases were drawn randomly from the Bronx Family Court Mental Health Clinic's active files. Clients were given a Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children—Revised, Bender Gestalt, and Wide-Range Achievement Test Reading. Results indicated that approximately one third were functioning the mentally defective range, one third in the borderline mentally retarded range, and one third in the low average to average range. Almost half showed perceptual deficits correlated with minimal brain dysfunction. Results were highly significant, suggesting that delinquents apprehended and seen in our clinic are likely to be of borderline intelligence or below, showing evidence of minimal brain dysfunction. Hypotheses are discussed, as is the need for appropriate treatment facilities.

Author Information

Schuster, R
Institute of Advanced Psychological Studies, Adelphi University, Garden City, NY
Guggenheim, PD
Department of Psychiatry, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY
Pages: 8
Price: $25.00
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Stock #: JFS11493J
ISSN: 0022-1198
DOI: 10.1520/JFS11493J