Exploring the link between intelligence and drug abuse among juvenile felons in India

ABSTRACT

Children involved in the juvenile justice system are more likely to struggle with substance abuse and intellectual disabilities. Substance abuse is a major public health concern among young individuals globally, including juvenile felons. This study examines the relationships and factors that influence juvenile felons’ substance abuse, intelligence, and delinquent behaviour. This study applies a descriptive cross-sectional survey design using a purposive sampling technique. The participants included 163 male juveniles from Tamil Nadu, India. The psychological measures used for the study were the Alcohol, Smoking, and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST) scale, the Standard Progressive Matrices, and the Australian Self-reported Delinquency Scale. According to the study’s findings, intelligence does not have a significant impact on juvenile felons’ delinquent behaviour. Furthermore, the study identified repeated offences and runaway behaviour as factors that increase the risk of substance abuse. Juvenile felons’ substance abuse significantly influences and predicts their delinquent behaviour.

KEYWORDS:

• Addiction
• juvenile felons
• intelligence
• substance abuse
• delinquent behaviour

Acknowledgements

The authors wish to extend their heartfelt thanks to all the participants involved in this study. The participants’ valuable contributions and insights have played a crucial role in shaping the research outcomes. The authors express their sincere gratitude to the respective institutions for their consistent support during the entire research process. The research has been made possible by the support of these institutions, allowing the findings to reach a broader audience.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Data availability statement

The data cannot be released to the public due to its sensitive and confidential nature. However, if the editorial team requests access to the information, it will be provided to them accordingly.

Correction Statement

This article has been corrected with minor changes. These changes do not impact the academic content of the article.

Additional information

Funding

No financial assistance in the form of funds or grants was obtained for the study.