THE LINK THEORY AND CRIMINAL ACTS OF ANIMAL CRUELTY: CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE IMPROVEMENT OF SOCIO-EDUCATIONAL MEASURES

Abstract

This article analyzes the contributions of Link Theory to the improvement of socio-educational measures applied to adolescents who commit acts equivalent to the crime of animal cruelty. It considers the relationship between the comprehensive protection of children and adolescents and the constitutional protection of animals against cruel practices, examining the Brazilian Child and Adolescent Statute, the National System of Socio-Educational Assistance Act, and Brazilian environmental legislation. Through qualitative, bibliographical, and documentary research, the study addresses legal, criminological, and psychological literature concerning the possible association between animal cruelty, loss of empathy, exposure to family violence, and future manifestations of interpersonal violence. The findings indicate that this relationship cannot be interpreted automatically or deterministically, although it may constitute an important indicator of psychological, family, and social vulnerabilities. The article concludes that Link Theory can assist multidisciplinary teams in preparing the Individual Assistance Plan and identifying the specific needs of each adolescent, thereby supporting individualized educational, psychosocial, and family interventions. Its application should not justify the automatic aggravation of socio-educational measures or the stigmatization of adolescents, but rather contribute to preventing recidivism, developing empathy, strengthening family and community bonds, and interrupting cycles of violence.