Abstract

MENDEZ, Pablo  and  BARRA, Enrique. Perceived Social Support in Adolescent Law Offenders and non Offenders. Psykhe [online]. 2008, vol.17, n.1, pp. 59-64. ISSN 0718-2228.  http://dx.doi.org/10.4067/S0718-22282008000100006.

This study compared perceived social support in two groups of 14 to 18 years old male adolescents, from the city of Linares (Chile), 53 law offenders and 53 non offenders. They were matched on several sociodemographic variables in order to equate both groups. The questionnare that was administered included questions about social network size, total support and four dimensions: emotional, advice, instrumental and reciprocity. Results showed significant differences between groups: non offenders showed a higher level of support network size, and higher levels on each dimension of support, and support perceived in the family, in comparison to law offenders.

Keywords : social support; adolescents; offenders.