What defines adolescent-limited offenders according to Moffitt's theories?

Adolescent-limited offenders, as described by Moffitt's developmental theory of crime, are characterized by their engagement in delinquent behavior primarily during their teenage years, with a significant reduction or cessation of such behavior upon reaching adulthood. This trajectory of delinquency is often influenced by social and environmental factors, such as peer pressure and the desire for autonomy, rather than underlying psychological issues or traits that persist into adulthood.

This distinction is crucial as it highlights that adolescent-limited offenders may not be as entrenched in a criminal lifestyle as life-course persistent offenders, who exhibit ongoing criminal behavior well into adulthood due to deeper rooted issues. The cessation of misbehavior indicates that, for these offenders, the juvenile phase represents a period of experimentation and development, rather than a permanent behavioral pattern. Understanding this concept is key for interventions aimed at preventing future delinquency, as they can target the specific dynamics that lead to desistance as adolescents transition to adulthood.