The Moderating Role of Parental Mediation in the Effects of Television Crime Shows on Juvenile Delinquency in Jordan

Objectives: The study aims to identify the impact of television (TV) crime shows on juvenile delinquency in Jordan and to examine the role of parental mediation as a moderating factor in this relationship. Additionally, it seeks to understand how demographic characteristics such as gender and socioeconomic conditions influence juvenile delinquency. Jordan faces a severe problem related to juvenile delinquency, and a review of current literature suggests that risky behaviors engaged in by adolescents who watch crime shows on TV may lead to juvenile offending.
Methods: Purposive sampling was used to collect data from 500 participants, and SPSS was employed to analyze the data and test the study hypotheses.
Results: The results indicated a significant relationship between TV crime shows and juvenile delinquency, with parental mediation moderating this relationship. The study also revealed gender differences in behavior related to juvenile delinquency, while family socioeconomic conditions did not show a significant impact.
Conclusions: This research highlights that much of the existing media research focuses on adolescent aggression. The findings will contribute valuable data to the growing body of research on juvenile delinquency. Additionally, the study will assist government and social agents in developing targeted strategies to reduce juvenile delinquency.