Learning disorders and delinquency

Learning disorders of various types are relatively common, and the reaction of the affected child can lead to social problems. The higher the children's intelligence the more frustrated they can become. Lack of self-esteem can cause unacceptable behaviour in trying to counteract this, and boost the child's confidence. There is evidence that learning disabilities are prevalent among those who are delinquent. Theories suggest this may be due directly to the learning difficulties, or to failure at school, starting a series of events leading to delinquency, or to the idea that those with learning difficulties are treated differently, especially when it comes to legal proceedings. Epilepsy can easily lead to learning disorders; particularly if the temporal lobes are involved, there are associated emotional disorders, or side effects of treatment. Also this association is often found amongst children with attention deficit disorders. If the link between learning disorders and delinquency is recognised there is considerable scope for prevention.