Delinquent behaviour and emotional intelligence among inmates of juvenile homes in Kerala, India

Abstract

Background: Delinquent behaviour represents a wide variety of law and norm violating behaviours by children. In India, statistics show that there is an increase in the rates of crimes committed by children. Methods: The sample of the study consisted of 100 adolescents from juvenile homes. Personal data sheet, Delinquent behaviour checklist, and Mangal Emotional Intelligence Inventory were the study tools. Mann-Whitney U test was carried out to find the association between delinquent behaviour and emotional intelligence among the inmates of juvenile homes. Results: Delinquent behaviour is found in 38% of children living in Juvenile homes. No significant difference is found between boys and girls in delinquent behaviour and emotional intelligence. A negative association is found between delinquent behaviour and emotional intelligence in the inmates of juvenile homes. Conclusion: Delinquent behaviour is found to be high among inmates of juvenile homes. A significant association was found between delinquent behaviour and emotional intelligence. Both nature and nurture are important in the development of emotional intelligence. Opportunities and training for the development and improvement of psychological faculties like emotional intelligence may impact the prevention and management of delinquent behaviour among children.