Proneness to Criminality in Young Adults: The Role of Gender

Abstract

The present study aimed to assess levels of proneness to criminality among young adults and examine the influence of gender on its various components. Criminality proneness was analyzed across six key dimensions: aggression, proneness to violence, psychopathic traits, disrespect towards law, and addiction proneness. Data were collected from a sample of young adults using a standardized assessment tool, and statistical analyses, including chi-square tests and independent samples t-tests, were conducted. Findings revealed that a majority of participants exhibited moderate levels of proneness across all components, with statistically significant differences noted among low, medium, and high levels (p < .001). Gender differences were also prominent, with male young adults scoring significantly higher in aggression, proneness to violence, and addiction proneness (p < .05), indicating a greater inclination toward externalizing behaviors. However, no significant gender differences were observed in psychopathic traits and disrespect towards the law. These results suggest that while most young adults demonstrate moderate risk levels, males may require particular attention in interventions targeting behavioral risk factors. The study highlights the need for early preventive strategies that are gender-sensitive and focused on mitigating risk behaviors that may lead to delinquency or criminal activity during the formative adolescent years. Further research is recommended to explore contextual and environmental influences.