Exploring latent factors of juvenile delinquency: a cross-sectional inquiry from India

Purpose This study aims to identify and analyze the cumulative psychosocial and environmental factors contributing to juvenile delinquency in India. While existing literature has explored these factors, much of it remains descriptive and lacks analytical depth. This study addresses that gap using Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to uncover underlying patterns. Design/methodology/approach A descriptive cross-sectional design was used in government observation homes across Tamil Nadu, India. Data were collected from 178 juvenile delinquents using a semi-structured interview schedule. PCA with varimax rotation was applied to identify latent dimensions influencing delinquent behavior. Findings The PCA revealed five key underlying factors contributing to juvenile delinquency: Dissatisfaction and Emotional Rebellion, Criminal Propensity and Peer Influence, Imitation and Family Disruption, Media Influence and Material Aspiration and Educational Disengagement and Migration. These factors reflect the complex psychosocial and environmental contexts shaping youth behavior. Research limitations/implications The study is limited to a specific region (Tamil Nadu) and includes only institutionalized male juveniles, as the number of female juveniles was too small for meaningful analysis. Additionally, the cross-sectional design restricts the ability to infer causality, particularly regarding the progression from minor offenses to more serious crimes. Practical implications The findings provide a framework for developing early intervention programs tailored to the specific needs of delinquent youth. Policymakers, educators and juvenile justice professionals can use this evidence to inform more targeted prevention strategies. Originality/value This study is among the few in India to apply PCA in juvenile delinquency research, offering a statistically grounded, multidimensional understanding of the factors involved.