The effect of bipolar effective disorder and low socio-economic status on juvenile delinquents in Pakistan

This study explores the relationship of low socio-economic status, bipolar affective disorder and juvenile delinquency among the children of Pakistan. A quantitative descriptive-correlational research design was used and the data were gathered from a sample of 220 juvenile offenders aged between 12 and 18 years using standardised instruments measuring socio-economic status, bipolar symptoms and delinquent behaviour. The results showed that low socio-economic status is highly associated with bipolar affective disorder. In addition, bipolar disorder was found to be positively related to juvenile delinquency, which suggests that children who are experiencing mood instability and emotional dysregulation are more likely to engage in delinquent behaviour. Regression analysis further showed that the socio-economic status is a significant predictor of juvenile delinquency. Importantly, the results suggest a mediating mechanism, whereby bipolar disorder may be acting as an intermediary factor between socio-economic disadvantage and delinquent behaviour. These findings emphasize the interrelatedness of structural and psychological factors in the development of juvenile delinquency. The study concludes that the need to address socio-economic inequalities and improve access to mental health services are important in reducing delinquent behaviour among vulnerable youth. It recommends the implementation of early intervention programmes that address the environmental and psychological risk factors.