Diagnostic Issues in Cases of Juvenile with Substance Abuse Problem in Forensic Psychology Field

Abstract

The article deals with the issues related to the recently-increasing problem of addiction to psychoactive substances in the context of the process of demoralization and offenses committed by minors. By making a scientific and research analysis of the phenomenon, the author looks for risk factors for juveniles falling into the mechanism of addiction, with particular emphasis on the conditions of the family environment. The article is based on theories and reports from international scientific research of the discipline compared to the research carried out directly by the author and the results obtained. The study group consisted of 54 juveniles selected on the basis of research at the Family Diagnostic and Consultative Centers at the District Court in Katowice, where the author works as a specialist in forensic psychology. The research examined the relationship between the intensification of the addiction problem and such variable groups as: intellectual development, educational conditions, conditions of family socialization, social relations, manifestations of demoralization in teenage periods, current life circumstances and psychological variables. The application allows to show particularly important factors to be taken into account in the diagnostic process, as well as to answer the key question: whether the statistical addiction of adolescent addictions is a manifestation of their demoralization or is the main factor and consequence of criminal activities.