Examining the effect of irrational beliefs and family functioning on delinquency

This research explored the influence of family functioning on delinquency among male adolescents aged 15 to 18 in Tehran, Iran. The study employed a non-experimental causal-comparative design, employing a sample of 30 normal and 30 delinquent individuals randomly selected from the overall population of boys within the 15-18 age range. The McMaster Family Assessment Device (FAD) was used to collect data, comprising 35 questions administered individually and in group settings to evaluate family functioning. Descriptive statistics, independent group t-tests, and Pearson's correlation coefficient were applied for data analysis. The findings revealed a noteworthy distinction in family functioning between the two groups of families, consisting of those with normal adolescents and those with delinquent adolescents. Specifically, families with normal adolescents exhibited greater proficiency in problem-solving and emotional expression compared to families with delinquent adolescents.