Disruptive Behavior Disorders and Juvenile Delinquency:  The Dilemma of Disability-Mediated Offending

Harjit SINGH; Kok Hwee CHIA

doi:10.64663/aet.90

Authors

Harjit SINGH AWWA Special School https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7234-7308
Kok Hwee CHIA Merlion Paediatric Therapy Clinic, Singapore https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3645-2602

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.64663/aet.90

Keywords:

Disability-Mediated Offending, Disruptive Behavior Disorder, Intervention, Juvenile Delinquency, Juvenile Justice System, Psychoeducational Therapy, Rehabilitation

Abstract

Disruptive Behavior Disorders (DBDs), which include Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) and Conduct Disorder (CD) of either childhood-onset or adolescence-onset or both, are associated with persistent patterns of Childhood and adolescence Aggression, Rule-breaking and Defiance (CAR-D). These behavioral patterns may increase the risk of juvenile delinquency, especially when combined with adverse environmental factors, especially family instability, academic disengagement, and trauma. This article examines the concept of disability-mediated offending (DMO), which suggests that some forms of juvenile offending may be influenced by underlying neurodevelopmental or psychological conditions rather than purely intentional criminal conduct. Drawing on contemporary developmental and criminological literature, the authors explore the pathways linking DBDs to delinquent behavior, the contextual realities of juvenile delinquency in Singapore, and evidence-based rehabilitation approaches. They also highlight the role of educational therapy and interdisciplinary intervention in addressing the developmental and psychosocial needs of at-risk youths. Understanding juvenile offending through both clinical and developmental perspectives may support more balanced responses that combine accountability with rehabilitation and social reintegration.

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