Unveiling Connections between Stress, Anxiety, Depression, and Delinquency Proneness: Analysing the General Strain Theory

Abstract

Abstract Background/objective The present study explored the correlation between different types of stress (acute and chronic) and the influence of their negative emotional manifestations on delinquent tendencies in adolescent students. Within the framework of the general strain theory, the study aims to analyse the intermediary role of depression in the relationship between anxiety and stress. This study investigated the relationship between stress, anxiety, depression, and delinquency proneness in adolescent school students in Sonepat, India. Methods and materials The present study utilised the descriptive survey method. Data were collected using standardised questionnaires based on self-reporting. Anxiety depression and stress scale and delinquency proneness scale were used to collect data from a sample of 200 students aged between 14 and 18 years from various schools in the district. Results The comparison (using independent t-test) revealed that levels of anxiety (t = −1.683, p = 0.094), depression (t = −0.196, p = 0.845), and delinquency proneness (t = −1.348, p = 0.179) were not significantly different between males and females, with the exception of stress (t = −2.929, p = 0.004). Furthermore, results of the Pearson product-moment correlation indicated a significant positive association between stress, anxiety, depression, and delinquency proneness. Regression analysis results showed that stress, anxiety, and depression have a significant effect on delinquency proneness (F(3, 196) = 28.2, p < 0.001). It further indicated that stress, anxiety, and depression cause 29.1% variation in delinquency proneness. In addition, results of mediation analysis showed that depression mediates the relationship between anxiety and delinquency proneness (accounts for 82.1% mediation). Furthermore, depression also mediates the relationship between stress and delinquency proneness (accounts for 74.5% mediation). Conclusions The results support the general strain theory, which posits that strain (anxiety and stress) can lead to delinquency proneness, which is mediated by depression. Research shows that delinquency proneness, depression, and stress are prevalent among adolescents. To prevent juvenile delinquency, effective intervention programs should focus on equipping young people with interpersonal skills and coping strategies.