The Dark Side of the Mind: A Psychological Study of Deviant
Behaviour
Dr. Rakesh Ashok More
Associate Professor and Head, Department of Psychology, MES Abasaheb Garware College
(Autonomous), Pune, India
Received: 05 November 2025; Accepted: 12 November 2025; Published: 19 November 2025
ABSTRACT
Criminal behaviour is a multifaceted phenomenon influenced by psychological, cognitive, social, and
environmental factors. This study investigates deviant behaviour through the analysis of empirical research,
case studies, and forensic reports. Key predictors examined include childhood trauma, peer influence,
cognitive distortions, personality disorders, and socio-economic disadvantages. Employing a descriptive and
analytical design with mixed methods, the research identifies patterns in childhood-onset and adolescent-onset
deviance. Findings reveal that criminal behaviour emerges from the interaction of multiple factors rather than a
single cause. The study underscores the importance of evidence-based interventions, early preventive
strategies, and rehabilitation programs to reduce criminal tendencies and recidivism.
INTRODUCTION
Crime is a significant social problem affecting communities and nations globally. Understanding the
psychological underpinnings of criminal behaviour is essential for both preventive and rehabilitative measures.
Criminal psychology explores the cognitive, emotional, and social factors that drive individuals to engage in
deviant acts, aiming to understand their motives, mental processes, and risk factors.
Research indicates that criminal behaviour is rarely the product of a single factor; instead, it arises from the
interaction of multiple influences. Early childhood experiences, including emotional neglect, abuse, and family
dysfunction, can impair moral development and emotional regulation, predisposing individuals to antisocial
behaviour. Peer relationships and social learning further influence deviance, as association with delinquent
peers or exposure to aggressive role models normalizes criminal acts.
Cognitive distortions, impulsivity, and antisocial personality traits are additional psychological determinants of
criminality. Environmental and socioeconomic stressors, such as poverty, limited education, and exposure to
violence, exacerbate these tendencies. The interplay of these factors demonstrates the complexity of criminal
behaviour, necessitating a multidisciplinary approach to prevention and rehabilitation.
LITERATURE REVIEW
Research in criminal psychology consistently demonstrates that deviant behaviour arises from a complex
interplay of psychological, social, and environmental influences. Childhood trauma, such as emotional neglect
and abuse, is a major predictor of later antisocial behaviour. Boren and Wynn (2014) found that children who
experience neglect often develop aggression, impulsivity, and moral disengagement, increasing their likelihood
of engaging in delinquent acts. Longitudinal research by Farrington (2005) also highlights that inconsistent
parenting, harsh punishment, and inadequate supervision significantly contribute to juvenile delinquency. In
India, Sharma and Kaur (2018) observed that urban youth exposed to family dysfunction exhibited higher rates
of deviance, indicating the cultural relevance of family influences.
Peer influence has been identified as another key factor in deviant behaviour. Akers and Jennings (2009)
reported that individuals associating with deviant peers are more likely to commit crimes, as antisocial
behaviours are reinforced within social groups. Loeber et al. (2003) demonstrated that exposure to aggressive
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