Final answer:
The age at which a juvenile first exhibits delinquent behavior is called the 'age of onset.' This stage can lead to more serious and persistent criminal behavior, especially if followed by secondary deviance, where the individual's self-concept and behavior are affected by societal labeling.
Step-by-step explanation:
The age at which a juvenile first exhibits delinquent behavior is called the 'age of onset.' This concept is critical in the field of criminology as early onset of delinquency is often associated with a more persistent criminal career. Furthermore, the primary deviance might occur during this period, which references a violation of norms that does not result in any long-term effects on the individual's self-image or interactions with others. It is important to note that not all juveniles who display delinquent behavior early will continue on a path of deviance; however, this early stage can serve as a precursor to what criminologists identify as secondary deviance. Secondary deviance happens when society labels the individual as a delinquent, which can lead to changes in self-concept and subsequent behavior, potentially creating a pattern of criminality known as a life of crime.