What does the term "delinquent" refer to in juvenile law?

In juvenile law, the term "delinquent" specifically refers to a juvenile who has committed a criminal offense. This can encompass a wide range of illegal activities that would be considered a crime if committed by an adult. Delinquency is a critical concept in understanding how the juvenile justice system operates, as it helps define the legal consequences and interventions available for young people who engage in criminal behavior.

The definition of "delinquent" focuses on the legal implications of a juvenile's actions, setting it apart from other behaviors that may not rise to the level of criminality. For instance, running away from home, disobeying school rules, or violating parental authority may reflect challenging behaviors or problems within a family or school environment, but these actions do not necessarily constitute criminal offenses under the law. Therefore, the term is specifically linked to the criminal justice system's terminology, addressing youth who engage in conduct defined as illegal.