ZLOUPORABA SREDSTAVA OVISNOSTI KAO RIZIČNI ČIMBENIK MALOLJETNIČKE DELINKVENCIJE
SUBSTANCE ABUSE AS A RISK FACTOR FOR JUVENILE DELINQUENCY

Summary/Abstract: Substance abuse among youth is one of the most significant predictors of juvenile delinquency, and its connection to mental health and the social environment requires a comprehensive, interdisciplinary response. Addiction to alcohol, psychoactive substances, and emerging behavioral dependencies often arises alongside emotional instability, impulsivity, mental health disorders, and dysfunctional family or school relationships, which substantially increase the risk of deviant and criminal behavior. Juvenile delinquency cannot be interpreted solely through the lens of criminal law; it reflects complex psychosocial and health-related dynamics that demand integrated prevention and resocialization strategies. This research draws upon national and international scientific and professional literature, including empirical studies, statistical data from national institutions, and reports from organizations such as WHO, EMCDDA (EUDA), and ESPAD. The combination of quantitative and qualitative methods enables the measurement and comparison of key risk factors for juvenile criminal behavior, while qualitative insights through literature review, legal frameworks (particularly the Juvenile Courts Act), and comparative European practices illuminate underlying causes, social contexts, and potential interventions. The findings highlight critical risk factors: substance abuse, low educational attainment, dysfunctional family environments, and strong peer influence, underscoring the need for multidisciplinary, individualized, and integrated approaches to juvenile offenders. Evidence indicates a strong link between early substance use and the development of antisocial and deviant behavioral patterns. Effective prevention requires coordinated programs that connect educational, health, social, and judicial institutions, alongside parental and professional training and the active involvement of multidisciplinary community teams. The results demonstrate that a systematic, strategic approach can significantly reduce recidivism, safeguard youth mental health, and enhance social inclusion, thereby creating conditions for successful reintegration into society.

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