Self-report juvenile delinquency and victimization in Portugal: preliminary data from the third International Self-Report Delinquency study (ISRD-3)

Abstract

Background: The International Self-Report Delinquency Study (ISRD) is an ongoing school-based study that aims 1) to assess cross-national similarities, differences and trends in juvenile delinquency and victimization and 2) to test theoretical questions related to delinquency in youth. Portugal is one of the 35 participating countries in ISRD-3 (2012-2015). Objectives: To describe preliminary data on lifetime prevalence of self-reported juvenile delinquency and victimization. Method: A random stratified sample of 7th-12th-grade students was selected in middle and high schools of three Portuguese cities, performing a total of 5400 students (300 x 6 grades x 3 cities). Lifetime prevalence of offences (e.g., vandalism, stealing from a car or from a person, group fight) and victimization experiences (e.g., robbery, assault, cyber bullying, hate crime) was assessed by a questionnaire administered in the classroom. So far, 1182 students completed the questionnaire and 1178 were rated as valid for analysis. Participating students had 11 to 23 years of age (M = 15.44, SD = 2.35), 55.4% were female and most were born in Portugal (94%). Results: Self-reported lifetime prevalence of victimization ranged from 5.6% (physical parental discipline) to 31.4% (theft). Approximately half reported having suffered one (22.3%) or more victimization experiences (28.8%). Self-reported lifetime prevalence of offending ranged from 0.5% (vehicle theft) to 52.2% (illegal downloading). More than half reported having committed one (28.9%) or more (34.6%) offences. Conclusion: These preliminary results suggest that significant changes have occurred since ISRD-2 and, therefore, demonstrate the importance of periodic surveys to inform public policies.