Abstract :
[en] A large number of studies (Stouthamer-Loeber, Loeber, Wei, Farrington & Wikstrom,
2002) have shown that the quality of parent-child relationship influences delinquency
behavior during adolescence. So, the poorer the quality of relationship between a parent
and his child is, the higher the probability that the child adopts delinquent behavior.
However, recent studies (Giordano et al., 2002 ; Laub et al., 1998 ; Meeus & al., 2004 ;
Woordward et al., 2002) have questioned the persistence of this association when
people involved in a romantic relationship. These research have shown that quality of
parent-child relationship predict delinquency in adolescents and young adults who do
not have an intimate partner. But in adolescents and young adults who have an intimate
partner, quality of parent-child relationship becomes obsolete. To be involved in an
intimate relationship leads to less delinquency. Furthermore, results are concordant with
research about desistance from delinquency that have shown that marriage leads to less
criminality (Forrest & Hay, 2011 ; Sampson & Laub, 1993). These studies (Meus & al.,
2004 ; Sampson & Laub, 1993) specify that it is quality of relationship rather than
simply being in a romantic relationship that have an impact on desistance from
delinquency.
From empirical research conducted with adolescents and young adults (N=283) aged
from 16 to 22 years old, and from a clinical research, we have explored links between
parental attachment, romantic attachment and delinquency. We wondered if romantic
attachment promotes desistance from delinquency whatever parental attachment.
Behavioral System Questionnaire (Wehner & Furman, 1999) and self-reported
delinquency scale (Born & Gavray, 1994) have used in this context.
It appears that most of the participants have been involved in a significant romantic
relationship. This romantic relationship is mainly characterized by a secure attachment.
So, it leads to less deviant behaviors. On the other hand, parental attachment does not
lead to less deviant behaviors. It also appears that attachment style that one develops
towards one’s parent is not unchangeable. Romantic relationship during adolescence
and adulthood can bring emotional and relational modifications.