비행친구교제가 청소년 비행에 미치는 영향: 자기중심성의 매개효과를 중심으로

초록

Probationary juveniles are adolescents who have already experienced at least one legal sanction or involvement in criminal activity, and thus require effective intervention and prevention efforts to reduce the risk of reoffending. Prior research consistently demonstrates that peer relationships are one of the major determinants of juvenile delinquency. According to Sutherland’s (1955) differential association theory, adolescents learn criminal values and behaviors through positive interactions with delinquent individuals. Association with delinquent peers therefore plays a crucial role in the acquisition and imitation of delinquent behaviors, during which adolescents may develop cognitive tendencies that justify or rationalize their actions— namely, egocentrism. Accordingly, this study examined the effect of delinquent peer association on juvenile delinquency among probationary youth, focusing on the mediating role of egocentrism. The findings indicated that egocentrism partially mediates the relationship between delinquent peer association and juvenile delinquency. These results suggest that an integrated approach is required to effectively prevent and intervene in delinquent behaviors among probationary juveniles. Given that egocentrism functions as a partial mediator, efforts should not be limited to restricting or reducing contact with delinquent peers; rather, interventions should also aim to prevent the development and reinforcement of egocentric cognitive patterns. Therefore, the development and implementation of educational programs targeting these cognitive tendencies are necessary.

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