Someone gave me a copy of “How to raise a Juvenile Delinquent” several years ago and I have carried it in my Bible for quite sometime. I thought that your readers might enjoy it. In light of recent events in the lives of teenagers everywhere, our parents need to take a better look at who we are, what our priorities are, and where our priorities begin.

A recent article written by Paul Harvey stated, “We treat our children as pets and our pets as children.” I saw a lot of truth in that statement. Think about it!

“How to raise a juvenile delinquent,” by the Houston Police Department:

1. Begin in infancy to give the child everything he wants. In this way he will grow up believing the world owes him a living.

2. When he picks up bad words, laugh at him. This will make him think he's cute. It will also encourage him to pick up cuter phrases that will blow off the top of your head later.

3. Never give him any spiritual training. Wait until he's 21 and let him decide for himself.

4. Avoid the use of the word “wrong.” He may develop a guilt complex. This will condition him to believe later, when he is arrested for stealing a car, that society is against him and he is being persecuted.

5. Pick up everything he leaves lying around — books, shoes, clothing. Do everything for him so he will be experienced in throwing all responsibility to others.

6. Let him read any printed matter he can get his hands on. Be careful that the silverware and drinking glasses are sterilized, but let his mind feast on garbage.

7. Quarrel frequently in the presence of your children. In this way they will not be too shocked when the home is broken up later.

8. Give a child all the spending money he wants. Never let him earn his own. Why should he have things as tough as you had them?

9. Satisfy his every craving for food, drink, and comfort. See that every sensual desire is gratified. Denial may lead to harmful frustration.

10. Take his part against neighbors, teachers and policeman. They are all prejudiced against your child.

11. When he gets into real trouble, apologize for yourself by saying, “I never could do anything with him”.

12. Prepare for a life of grief. You will be apt to have it.

Tresa Martin

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