Risk and protective factors of youth crime: An umbrella review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses

Introduction

Several systematic reviews and meta-analyses have been conducted on the risk and protective factors of youth crime. This study aims to consolidate this evidence using an umbrella review methodology.

Methods

A systematic electronic search was conducted using multiple electronic databases. Strength of associations was evaluated using quantitative umbrella review criteria, and AMSTAR was used to assess the quality of the studies.

Results

Among the 58 factors identified, 11 factors were supported by highly suggestive or suggestive evidence. Evidence of association was highly suggestive (class II) for substance use (odds ratio [OR] = 2·29, 95%CI 1·58–3.01), previous history of crime (OR = 2·03, 95%CI 1·62–2·45), moral development (OR = 3·98, 95%CI 3·57–4·39), psychopathology (OR = 2·22, 95%CI 1.40–2.69), adverse childhood experiences (OR = 1·37, 95%CI = 1·36–1·38), poor parental supervision (OR = 1·85, 95%CI 1·83–1·87), maltreatment or neglect (OR = 1·34, 95%CI 1·08–1·65), attachment (OR = 1·94; 95%CI 1.93–1·95), and school bullying (OR = 2·50; 95%CI 2·03–3·08); and suggestive (class III) for peer pressure (OR = 2·11, 95%CI 2·06–2·16) and supportive school environments (OR = 0·56; 95%CI 0·55–0·57).

Conclusion

The evidence-based atlas of key risk and protective factors identified in this umbrella review could be used as a benchmark for advancing research, prevention, and early intervention strategies for youth crime.