Final answer:
In general, involvement in delinquent activity may lead to a decrease in self-esteem due to negative consequences like social disapproval and legal problems, despite occasional short-term increases.
Step-by-step explanation:
In response to the question about how involvement in delinquent activity may affect self-esteem, research suggests that such involvement typically leads to a decrease in self-esteem. When individuals engage in delinquent behaviors, they often experience a range of negative consequences including social disapproval, legal troubles, and personal guilt, which can all contribute to lower self-esteem. However, it's important to note the complexity of human behavior and psychology; in some cases, individuals may initially experience an increase in self-esteem due to feelings of rebellion or peer acceptance, but this is generally not sustainable and can decrease over time as negative consequences accumulate.