delinquency

Delinquency is a term used in multiple fields to describe failure to conform to norms or obligations. In criminology and law, it commonly refers to illegal or antisocial behavior, particularly by youths, though it can describe offenses committed by adults as well. In finance and economics, delinquency refers to failure to meet financial obligations, such as failing to make scheduled loan or credit card payments, and to the resulting status used in credit risk assessment.

Juvenile delinquency covers acts that would be crimes regardless of age, or status offenses unique to minors. It is studied within juvenile justice systems that emphasize rehabilitation, family services, and community programs, though sanctions can include probation, diversion, or custodial care depending on severity and jurisdiction.

Financial delinquency measures the timeliness of debt payments. Accounts are often described as delinquent after a set period past due (for example 30 days), with increasing severity indicating higher credit risk. Chronic delinquency can lead to charged-off debt, collections, higher interest rates, and adverse effects on credit scores.

Causes of delinquency include overlapping risk factors such as poverty, social marginalization, family instability, exposure to violence, school disengagement, and mental health or substance use issues for crime. Economic stress and unemployment contribute to financial delinquency, while macroeconomic cycles influence both crime and debt patterns.

Consequences depend on the context. Juvenile delinquency can impact education, employment prospects, and future interactions with the justice system; financial delinquency affects lenders, borrowers, and the broader economy through costs of collections and impaired access to credit. Preventive measures include early intervention, education, family support, restorative approaches in justice, and responsible lending, financial education, and debt restructuring.