We have published a unique study that focuses on a specific case of an adolescent from a functional family, which provides a unique perspective on juvenile delinquency in an unusual context. In other words, even a child from a functional family may exhibit delinquent behavior even within a limited period of adolescence (Moffit’s taxonomy). Thus, we add to the deeper explanations of the motives for delinquency included in quantitative studies (e.g., Janssen et al., 2016; Hoeve et al., 2009) that provide a broader context and confirmation of the importance of Bandura’s social learning theory and peer influence in the process of delinquent behavior in adolescents. This theory explains adolescent delinquency as learned through social interactions and deficiencies in various skill areas (the so-called inversion of polite society values). In the unusual case studied, a boy from a functional family conferred a sense of self-efficacy and personal power through delinquent acts.

Our second case study of a girl is now under review.