In 1969 juveniles accounted for more than half the arrests for auto thefts, burglary, and larceny. The first United Nations Congress on the Prevention of Crime and the Treatment of Offenders was held in 1955. A second was held in 1960 and a third in 1965. Precise comparison of countries is impossible, but it is clear that juvenile delinquency is a serious problem in all industrialized nations. Crimes against property are by far the most frequent type of offense.
Theft seems to be associated more with the younger offender.
Narcotic addiction and other types of drug dependence, though not always criminal offenses, are a relatively new and disturbing form of deviance which seems to be increasing rapidly. Under-age drinking and shoplifting are two specific offenses that cost Americans millions each year. Other alarming behaviors include truancy, drug usage, vandalism, bullying and joyriding. This shows that there has been improvement, but there is still much to do.