Dark Tetrad Personality Traits and Criminogenic Cognitions: Peer Delinquency as a Mediator in Destitute Adolescents

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Despite the growing concerns, existing literature on the Dark Tetrad traits and peer delinquency’s influence on criminogenic cognitions among destitute adolescents is scarce. The existing studies tend to address personality traits, juvenile delinquency or peer influence in isolation and are rarely specific to destitute populations. Similarly, they are more concentrated on general youth or western contexts, overlooking the cultural nuances. Therefore, this study is essential in providing insights for localized risk factors, targeted prevention and rehabilitation strategies in a high-risk yet understudied population. Methods The present study was cross-sectional research conducted on 109 destitute adolescents from May to December 2024. The participants were selected via non-probability purposive sampling. This research used Short Dark Tetrad 4, Criminogenic Cognitions Scale and Peer Delinquency Scale. The collected data was then analysed using descriptive tests, Pearson Product Moment Correlation, and Mediation Analysis. Results The results showed that the relationship between dark tetrad traits and criminogenic cognitions was mediated by peer delinquency, indicating that increase in Machiavellianism, psychopathy and sadism traits tend to increase peer delinquency. While increase in peer delinquency in-turn increases criminogenic cognitions in adolescents. Conclusion According to the results, peer delinquency serves as a key mediator through which dark tetrad traits contribute to the development of criminogenic cognitions. Therefore, the need for targeted interventions is significant in vulnerable youth populations. Dark tetrad traits Peer delinquency Criminogenic cognitions Destitute adolescents Figures Figure 1 Background Adolescents in Pakistan, specifically those from underprivileged backgrounds, are at a risk for developing delinquency and criminal thinking patterns due to the socio-economic hardships they face. In Pakistan, over 38% of the population is multidimensionally poor, with an additional 12.9% subjected as vulnerable to poverty (PBS, 2020). In fact, the 7th Population and Housing Census results indicate that children under 18 make up a large portion of the Pakistani population, many of whom are vulnerable due to lack of parental care, economic instability, and social displacement. (PBS, 2023). Criminal behaviour and thinking patterns have extensively been researched upon in the Western populations, where the culture is mainly individualistic. Whereas collectivistic cultures such as of Pakistan where factors like social and peer influence can shape thinking patterns, remains unexplored. The current study aims to explore the influence of socially aversive personalities; dark tetrad traits (Machiavellianism, narcissism, psychopathy and sadism) and peer delinquency in the shaping of criminogenic cognitions. Research suggests that dark tetrad traits may predispose individuals to seek and be with delinquent peers that foster antisocial attitudes. In turn, peer delinquency contributes to a greater inclination towards criminogenic cognitions by normalizing and validating these traits within their social environments (Walters, 2016 ). Over two decades ago, dark triad was introduced which constituted of three malevolent personality traits; Machiavellianism categorized by manipulation and deceit, narcissism which is a grandiose sense of self and psychopathy composed of lack of empathy and remorse (Aluja et al., 2022 ). However, 7 years later, sadism was added, forming the dark tetrad. (Furnham & Horne, 2021 ). Sadism refers to inflicting pain or humiliation upon others and deriving pleasure from it. Sadism is also associated with pervasive sexual behaviours (Marshall et al., 2002 ). A key factor between dark tetrad traits is callousness defined as lack of empathy which allows individuals with dark tetrad personality traits to partake in deviant behaviours without feeling any remorse (Zafar, 2024 ) Peer delinquency refers to the influence of delinquent peers on an individual’s commitment in antisocial or criminal behaviours. The effect of peer delinquency can be direct or indirect. Individuals with dark personality traits exhibit low empathy, manipulative tendencies and a conscious disregard for social norms, such individuals find comfort in environments where these behaviours are welcomed and normalized (Zettler et al., 2021 ) Peer delinquency not only serves as a social reinforcement mechanism but also as a cognitive echo chamber which amplifies criminal thinking patterns and diminishes moral constraints (Vaughn et al., 2014 ). Previous research has shown peer delinquency as a strong predictor of adolescent engagement in various gangs. Individuals often seek acceptance and status through engaging in deviant activities (Wright & Cullen, 2020 ). Moreover, studies have shown that certain types of crimes, such as substance abuse and violence may be particularly significant to peer influence (Stewart & McBride, 2022 ). Research also suggests that the effect of peer delinquency can be enhanced by other factors, such as individual personality traits and family dynamics. Adolescents from maladjusted families or those with high levels of aggression may be more prone to peer delinquency and are more likely to adopt criminal behaviours (Farrington et al., 2021 ). Similarly, Jonason et al. ( 2015 ) demonstrated in a sample of 1149 participants that individuals with high scores in Dark Tetrad traits are more likely to exhibit antisocial behaviour when surrounded by delinquent peers, highlighting the reinforcing role of peer influence. Criminogenic cognitions refer to thinking patterns and beliefs that justify or rationalize criminal behaviour, allowing individuals to minimize guilt and moral responsibility. Common criminogenic cognitions include various beliefs such as "everyone else is doing it," "I deserve it," or "the rules don't apply to me,”. Research has also shown that a link exists between criminogenic cognitions and personality disorders, such as psychopathy, where individuals may show more extreme forms of moral disengagement (Viding et al., 2020 ). Furthermore, the influence of Dark Tetrad traits on bullying victimization and perpetration were examined in research by Pineda et al. ( 2021 ). The results showed that psychopathy and sadism were strong predictors of an individual’s contribution in bullying and other delinquent behaviours, suggesting a link between these traits and peer delinquency. Additionally, studies have suggested that the Dark Tetrad traits contribute to criminogenic cognitions. Research by Vize et al. ( 2020 ) indicated that individuals with high levels of psychopathy and Machiavellianism exhibit cognitive distortions that minimize the consequences of their actions and justify exploitative or harmful behaviour. These criminogenic cognitions can be further reinforced through peer delinquency, as association with delinquent peers reduces moral inhibitions against offending and increases exposure to criminal justifications (Walters, 2020 ). While previous studies have addressed individual traits in isolation and previously, peer delinquency is a well-established predictor of criminal behaviour but its interaction with dark tetrad traits in shaping criminogenic cognitions remains misunderstood. The current study explores the relationship between dark tetrad traits and peer delinquency is shaping criminogenic cognitions in destitute adolescents, we hypothesised that There will be a positive relationship between dark tetrad traits (Machiavellianism, narcissism, psychopathy and sadism), peer delinquency and criminogenic cognitions among destitute adolescents. Peer delinquency will mediate the relationship between dark tetrad traits and criminogenic cognitions among destitute adolescents. Methods Study Design and Setting A cross-sectional, descriptive design was conducted from May to December 2024. The specific aims were as follows: (1) This study aims to examine the relationship between dark tetrad personality traits (Machiavellianism, narcissism, psychopathy, and sadism), peer delinquency, and criminogenic cognitions among destitute adolescents, (2) and to explore the mediating role of peer delinquency in the link between dark tetrad traits and criminogenic cognitions. The sample was selected from child protection units and respective orphanages from Rawalpindi and Islamabad. The inclusion criteria of the study were only those destitute individuals who (1) committed minor crimes or misdemeanours before (2) admitted by parents or guardians (3) had been residing in the institution for at least 3 months. Destitute individuals who were suffering from any kind of physical disability or conduct disorder were excluded from the study. In the case of incomplete questionnaires, the samples were excluded from the study. Sample Size and participants G* Power calculator generated a sample size of 102 participants. Non-probability purposive sampling technique was employed to select the participants. 120 participants were recruited, and 109 participants met study’s inclusion criteria. Out of these, 11 were excluded due to their non-completion of screening measures or their mismatch with the inclusion criteria. Data Collection Ethical approval for this study was obtained from the Institutional Ethical Review Board (IERB) of Bahria University, Islamabad, Pakistan (Reference No. IERB/BUIC/PP/2024/004), in accordance with the ethical standards outlined in the American Psychological Association’s Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct, and the Declaration of Helsinki. After obtaining ethical approval, permission was taken from the institutional authorities, and data was collected in person through multiple visits. All participants were informed of the study’s aim and methods and assured of their anonymity and data confidentiality. As the study included participants below the age of 18 (considered minors under Pakistani law), informed consent was obtained from the parents or legal guardians of all participants under the age of 18, along with assent from the minors themselves, appropriate to their age and level of understanding. In addition to the written information on the informed consent form, participants were also verbally briefed. The time to complete the surveys was approximately 30 minutes. Measures Short Dark Tetrad 4 (SD4) Short Dark Tetrad 4 (SD4) was developed by Paulhus et al. ( 2018 ) and translated into Urdu by Yusuf et al. ( 2024 ), was used to measure the extent of dark personality traits. It comprises of 28 items, consisting of four seven-item subscales. A 5-point Likert scale is used to tap the responses of participants. The responses can range from 1 (strongly disagree) to 5 (strongly agree). An example item is “It’s not wise to let people know your secrets.” The internal reliability of Short Dark Tetrad 4 as reported by Paulhus et al. ( 2018 ), was narcissism α = .74, machiavellianism α = .80, psychopathy α = .75 and sadism α = .80. Criminogenic Cognitions Scale (CCS) The Criminogenic Cognitions Scale (CCS) was developed by Tangney et al. ( 2014 ) and translated into Urdu by Jamil et al. ( 2014 ), was used to measure cognitive patterns related to criminal thinking. It comprises 25 items, consisting of five dimensions. A 4-point Likert scale is used to tap the responses of participants. The responses can range from 1 (strongly disagree) to 4 (strongly agree). An example item is “When I want something, I expect people to deliver.” The internal reliability of Criminogenic Cognitions Scale as reported by Tangney et al. ( 2014 ), was α = .81. Peer Delinquency Scale Peer Delinquency Scale was developed by Jang et al. ( 2015 ) and translated into Urdu by Muhammad Asim et al. ( 2018 ), was used to measure how many of the respondent’s peers are involved in delinquent activities. It comprises 8 items. A 4-point Likert scale is used to tap the responses of participants. The responses can range from 1 (none of them) to 4 (most of them). An example item is “I often hang out with friends who get into trouble”. The internal reliability of Peer Delinquency Scale as reported by Jang et al. ( 2015 ), was α = .88. Statistical Analysis Descriptive statistics and correlation analysis were analysed using IBM SPSS v27. A structural equation model (SEM) with AMOS 24.0 maximum likelihood estimation was used to test the hypothesized model. To examine the model fit, multiple fit indices, including the relative chi-square statistic (χ 2 / df ), Goodness of fit index (GFI), comparative fit index (CFI), non-normed fit index (NNFI), root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA), standardized root mean square (SRMR) were used. Further, mediation analysis was carried out including direct and indirect effect along with a bootstrapping method at a 95% bias-corrected confidence interval (CI) throughout the statistical analyses. Results Table 1 Descriptive Statistics of Demographic Characteristics of the Adolescents (N = 109). Variables ƒ (%) M SD Age (years) 13.2 3.0 Age at Admission 9.9 3.1 Gender Girls 45 41.3 Boys 64 58.7 Who were you admitted by Parents 68 62.4 Guardian 41 37.6 Note: ƒ= frequencies of demographic variables, %= percentages, M = mean, SD = standard deviation. Table 1 shows that the average age of the participants was found to be 13.2 years with a standard deviation of 3.0. Out of the 109 participants, 76 (69.7%) were early adolescents and 33 (30.3%) were late adolescents. The average age at the time of admission was 9.9 years with a standard deviation of 3.1. In a sample of 109 participants, 64 (58.7%) were male while 45 individuals (41.3%) were female. Most participants 68 (62.4%) were admitted by their parents while the remainder 41 by guardians (37.6%). Table 2 Descriptive Statistics and Reliability Analysis of Dark Tetrad Traits, Peer Delinquency and Criminogenic Cognitions in Adolescents (N = 109). Variables k M SD Range α Actual Potential Dark Tetrad Machiavellianism 7 30.4 4.6 17–35 7–35 .70 Narcissism 7 26.7 5.74 12–35 7–35 .77 Psychopathy 7 20.2 6.9 7–34 7–35 .70 Sadism 7 23.4 6.1 8–34 7–35 .71 Peer Delinquency 8 12.3 4.2 8–22 8–32 .75 Criminogenic Cognitions 25 62.6 15.4 37–92 25–100 .70 Short Term Orientation 5 13.1 4.9 5–20 5–25 .84 Notions of Entitlement 5 15.2 4.6 5–20 5–25 .80 Failure to Accept Responsibility 5 11.1 4.6 5–20 5–25 .74 Negative Attitude Towards Authority 5 11.0 4.7 5–20 5–25 .82 Insensitivity to Impact of Crime 5 13.46 4.7 5–20 5–25 .75 Note : k = number of items, M = mean, SD = standard deviation and α = Cronbach Alpha Table 2 shows the descriptive statistics and reliability analysis for the study variables including their sub-scales. Mean, standard deviation and number of items of dark tetrad traits, peer delinquency and criminogenic cognition including their subscales were presented in the table. Furthermore, the reliability analysis showed that Cronbach alpha reliabilities for the subscales of dark tetrad traits were .70, .77, .70 and .71 respectively. Additionally, the reliability analysis showed that the Cronbach alpha reliability of peer delinquency was .75. Criminogenic cognition had a Cronbach alpha reliability of .70 while its subscales were .84, ,80, .74, .82, .75 respectively. Pearson Product Moment Correlation Analysis It was hypothesized that there is likely to be a positive relationship between for dark tetrad traits (Machiavellianism, narcissism, psychopathy and sadism), peer delinquency and criminogenic cognitions (short term orientation, notions of entitlement, failure to accept responsibility, negative attitude towards authority, insensitivity to impact of crime) among destitute youth. Pearson product moment correlation analysis was conducted to investigate the relationship between dark tetrad traits, peer delinquency and criminogenic cognitions. Table 3 Bivariate Correlation Between Dark Tetrad Traits (Machiavellianism, Narcissism, Psychopathy and Sadism), Peer Delinquency and Criminogenic Cognitions in Adolescents (N = 109). Variables 2 3 4 5 6 Dark Tetrad - - - - - 1-Machiavellianism .32*** .15 .20* .47*** .16 2-Narcissism - .31*** .19* .02 .03 3- Psychopathy - - .10 29** .21* 4-Sadism - - - .24* .24* 5- Peer Delinquency - - - - .47*** 6- Criminogenic Cognitions - - - - - *p < .05, **p < .01, ***p < .001 The results of Pearson product moment correlation analysis (see Table 3 ) showed that among dark tetrad traits including Machiavellianism, psychopathy, and sadism were found to be significantly positively correlated with peer delinquency. However, narcissism was found to be non-significantly correlated with peer delinquency. Meanwhile, psychopathy and sadism were found to be significantly positively correlated with criminogenic cognition, whereas Machiavellianism and narcissism were non-significantly correlated with criminogenic cognition. Furthermore, peer delinquency was significantly positively correlated with criminogenic cognition. Structural equation modelling was employed to examine the mediating role of peer delinquency between the dark tetrad traits (Machiavellianism, narcissism, psychopathy and sadism) and criminogenic cognitions in adolescents. The initial model's absolute fit, as evidenced by the chi-square test χ² (25) = 46.97, p < .05, indicated an excellent fit with the data. However, acknowledging the inherent limitations of the chi-square test regarding sample size and model complexity, we turned to additional fit indices (Goodness of fit index (GFI), comparative fit index (CFI), non-normed fit index (NNFI), root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA), standardized root mean square (SRMR) for a comprehensive evaluation. These indices RMSEA = .05, (SRMR) = .06, GFI = .95, CFI = .90, NNFI = .90, and χ²/df = 1.88 collectively suggested that the model demonstrated an excellent fit according to suggested standards of descriptive fit measures (see Fig. 1). The estimates to be analyzed for direct and indirect effects after done with the model fit, dark tetrad traits (machiavellianism, narcissism, psychopathy and sadism), peer delinquency and criminogenic cognitions in adolescents with 5000 bootstrapped sample (see Table 4 and 5 ). Table 4 Standardized Estimates of Direct Effects for Dark Tetrad Traits (Machiavellianism, Narcissism, Psychopathy and Sadism), and Criminogenic Cognitions in Adolescents (N = 109). Variables Peer Delinquency Criminogenic Cognitions β SE β SE Machiavellianism .31 *** 0.18 .13 0.16 Narcissisms .08 0.09 .04 0.07 Psychopathy .22* 0.12 .21 ** 0.16 Sadism .19* 0.14 .17 * 0.11 Peer Delinquency .33 *** 0.19 Total R 2 .312 .212 * p < .05, ** p < .01, *** p < .001 The Direct effect showed that Machiavellianism, psychopathy, and sadism were found to be significant positive predictors of peer delinquency. However, narcissism was found to be a non-significant predictor of peer delinquency. Meanwhile, psychopathy and sadism were also found to be significant positive predictors of criminogenic cognition, whereas Machiavellianism and narcissism were non-significantly predicted criminogenic cognition. Peer delinquency was significantly positively predicted by criminogenic cognition. Table 5 Standardized Estimates of Indirect Effects through Peer Delinquency between Dark Tetrad Traits (Machiavellianism, Narcissism, Psychopathy and Sadism), and Criminogenic Cognitions in Adolescents (N = 109). Variables Criminogenic Cognitions β SE Machiavellianism .09* 0.07 Narcissisms .02 0.03 Psychopathy .11* 0.09 Sadism .04* 0.02 * p < .05. ** p < .01. The results of indirect effect showed that peer delinquency was found to be a significant positive mediator between dark tetrad traits including (machiavellianism, psychopathy and sadism), and criminogenic cognitions in adolescents. Which showed that increase in machiavellianism, psychopathy and sadism traits tend to increase peer delinquency. While increase in peer delinquency in-turn increases criminogenic cognitions in adolescents. Discussion The results of this study offer valuable insights into the complex interplay between dark tetrad traits, peer delinquency and criminogenic cognitions among destitute adolescents. The findings reveal that Machiavellianism, psychopathy and sadism were significantly positively correlated with peer delinquency supporting the presumption that individuals with dark tetrad traits are inclined to seek out delinquent peers which reinforce and mirror their antisocial conduct (Zafar & Qurat-ul-ain, 2023 ). Similarly, the significant positive correlation between psychopathy, sadism and criminogenic cognitions emphasizes the internal psychological mechanisms that direct antisocial thinking. Psychopathy and sadism are both strongly associated with a diminished capacity for remorse and moral disengagement (Jones & Paulhus, 2011 ; Buckels et al., 2013). This internal nature likely weakens the psychological barriers that usually deter antisocial behaviours leading to the facilitation of development of criminogenic cognitions. Furthermore, there were no significant correlations between narcissism and both peer delinquency as well as criminogenic cognitions. This can be explained by the complex deposition of narcissism which sometimes can align with socially adaptive behaviours specifically in instances where self-image is connected to socially acceptable success (Jonason et al., 2014 ). Hence, narcissism may not always predispose individuals to deviant peers and subsequently criminal thinking patterns. The positive correlation between peer delinquency and criminogenic cognitions is consistent with a substantial body of psychological and criminological literature that emphasizes the role of delinquent peers in shaping criminal thinking patterns. Differential association theory suggests that individuals learn criminal behaviour through the process of modeling, reinforcement and group conformity (Akers, 2009 ). The results of the mediation analysis further support this by underscoring peer delinquency as a pathway through which individuals with dark personality traits exhibit influence on criminogenic cognitions. Notably, Machiavellianism, psychopathy and sadism were significant positive predictors of peer delinquency which suggests such a process of social reinforcement where not only are deviant peers a model but also help normalize and validate cognitive distortions that foster antisocial attitudes and behaviours (Paulhus et al., 2018 ; Jonason et al., 2014 ). In contrast, narcissism was found to be a non-significant predictor of peer delinquency, this aligns with previous research suggesting that narcissistic individuals may be more concerned with maintaining a grandiose sense of self, seeking praise and admiration rather than engaging in over peer delinquent relationships (Miller et al., 2007 ). They are often preoccupied with maintaining an inflated sense of self, justifying their actions in a manner that preserves their ego (Morf & Rhodewalt, 2001 ). This finding suggests that narcissists may influence antisocial attitudes and behaviours through a potentially less direct path which may be focused more on self-serving rationalizations rather than peer influence. Furthermore, psychopathy and sadism were found to be significant positive predictors of criminogenic cognitions supporting their central role in shaping criminal thinking patterns. These traits are associated with moral disengagement and effective deficits, reducing the psychological barriers present in validating and endorsing criminal behaviours (Hare & Neumann, 2008 ; Vaughn et al., 2014 ). Destitute adolescents high in psychopathy or sadism may exhibit higher levels of short-term orientation, insensitivity to harm or entitlement, all of which are cognitive constructs linked to recidivism and delinquency (Walters, 2012 ). In contrast, Machiavellianism and narcissism were found to be non-significant predictors of criminogenic cognitions which suggests antisocial conduct may be influenced by these traits through more strategic or self-enhancing cognitive patterns which may not directly align with the cognitive components measured in this study. Importantly, peer delinquency was found to be a significant positive predictor of criminogenic cognitions highlighting the crucial mediating role of social environment in the facilitation of criminal thinking patterns. This supports past research which emphasizes the role of delinquent peers in fostering cognitive distortions and moral rationalizations that promote criminal behaviours (McCutcheon et al., 2016 ; Walters, 2012 ). Destitute adolescents, through repeated exposure to delinquent norms and reinforcement to offending conduct within their deviant groups are more likely to adhere and adopt criminogenic beliefs thus also increasing their susceptibility to criminal behaviours. The results of the mediation analysis showed that dark tetrad traits lead to an increase in peer delinquency which then in turn increases criminogenic cognitions. This supports the perspective that there is a dynamic interaction between personality traits and environment. It also reflects upon the reinforcement and social learning models of deviance which argue that peer influence plays a crucial role in shaping attitudes and behaviours related to crime (Akers, 2009 ). Individuals with dark personality traits prefer a social environment that aligns with their nature which in turn shapes their beliefs and attitudes (Vaughn et al., 2014 ). Delinquent peers offer both direct encouragement and subtle reinforcement which strengthens criminal thinking patterns. Similarly, such individuals may not only be predisposed to sought out deviant peers but are also more susceptible to endorsing antisocial behaviours and thinking patterns through their continuous exposure to deviant groups. In this way peer delinquency is like a conduit through which dark personality traits are shaped into criminogenic cognitions, especially in vulnerable populations where their life circumstances contribute to facing compromised moral and social development (Vaughn et al., 2014 ). Limitations The present study has several limitations. First, the data collection was particularly challenging since the destitute adolescents were always not available because of their presence at the trails. Second, the destitute adolescents were mostly relocated or would leave due to personal reasons. Third, since the destitute adolescents were mostly not able to comprehend the items and response categories, the administration was particularly challenging. Fourth, the institutes were reluctant in giving out information. Lastly, the psychological (dark tetrad) and social perspectives (peer delinquency) were catered in the study, but the history of abuse was not taken into consideration. Therefore, further longitudinal research will be needed. Strengths Despite the mentioned limitations, the study bridges a gap in literature where marginalized populations are often underexplored. Its focus on destitute adolescents highlights the risk factors unique to this population including family dynamics, early admission into shelters and peer influences revealing significant developmental differences and gender disparities. It further emphasizes the role of social environment in shaping maladaptive thought processes and how it could help mitigate long-term risks of criminal behaviour. Conclusion The results of the present study highlight the intricate relationship between dark tetrad traits, peer delinquency and criminogenic cognitions among destitute adolescents, revealing how specific personality traits like Machiavellianism, psychopathy and sadism, when reinforced by delinquent peer associations, significantly shape criminal thinking. The findings underscore the crucial mediating role of the social environment, suggesting that peer delinquency acts as a conduit through which dark tetrad traits influence criminogenic cognitions. Thus, this research emphasizes the need for targeted interventions addressing both psychological traits and social contexts to prevent long-term criminal outcomes. Abbreviations M Mean SD Standard Deviation f Frequency % Percentage k Number of items α Cronbach's Alpha Reliability p Significance Level β regression coefficients CL Confidence Level LL Lower Boundary UL Upper Boundary t t value B Unstandardized Beta SE Standard Error η2 eta square (effect size) SEB Coefficient Standard Error SD4 Short Dark Tetrad 4 CCS Criminogenic Cognitions Scale χ 2 /df Chi-square Statistics GFI Goodness of fit index CFI Comparative fit index NNFI Non-Normed fit index RMSEA Root Mean Square Error of Approximation SRMR Standardized Root Mean Square Declarations Ethics approval and consent to participate This study was approved by the Institutional Ethical Review Board (IERB) of Bahria University Islamabad, reference number IERB/BUIC/PP/2024/004. Consent for publication Not applicable Availability of data and materials The datasets generated and/or analysed during the current study are not publicly available due to the necessity to ensure participant confidentiality policies and laws of the country but are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request. Competing interests The authors declare no competing interests. Funding This research did not receive funding from any source. Authors' contributions M. Waseem, H. Fatima = conceptualization and Methodology, M. Faran = Results and Data Analysis, M. Fayyaz = Discussion and Conclusion Acknowledgements Nil References Akers RL. Social learning and social structure: A general theory of crime and deviance. Transaction.; 2009. Aluja A, et al. The dark triad and personality traits: An integrative review. J Personal Soc Psychol. 2022;113(4):789–805. https://doi.org/10.1037/pspp0000389 . Farrington DP, et al. 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Criminal thinking: Behavioral and cognitive principles and practices. Sage; 2012. Walters GD. Friends, cognition, and delinquency: Proactive and reactive criminal thinking as mediators of the peer influence and peer selection effects among male delinquents. Justice Q. 2016;33(6):1055–79. https://doi.org/10.1080/07418825.2015.1039048 . Walters GD. Peer delinquency and criminogenic cognitions: The reinforcing cycle. Criminal Justice Behav. 2020;47(9):1146–64. https://doi.org/10.1177/0093854820933932 . Wright JP, Cullen FT. The role of peer influence in adolescent offending. Annual Rev Criminol. 2020;3:89–111. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-criminol-011419-041611 . Yusuf A, Khan M, Shah S. (2024). Urdu translation of the Short Dark Tetrad (SD4) scale . Zafar M. Social influences on dark tetrad traits in Pakistani adolescents. J adolescents Adolescence. 2024;53(6):917–30. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10964 024-01673-x . Zafar T, Qurat-ul-ain A. Relationship of Tetrad Dark Personality Traits and Delinquent Behavior among Adolescents: Moderating Role of Social Support. Crit Rev Social Sci Stud. 2023;1(1):1–12. https://doi.org/10.59075/4y8wa629 . Zettler I, Moshagen M, Hilbig BE. Stability and change: The dark factor of personality shapes dark traits. Social Psychol Personality Sci. 2021;12(6):974–83. https://doi.org/10.1177/1948550620942603 . Additional Declarations No competing interests reported. Cite Share Download PDF Status: Posted Version 1 posted You are reading this latest preprint version Research Square lets you share your work early, gain feedback from the community, and start making changes to your manuscript prior to peer review in a journal. As a division of Research Square Company, we’re committed to making research communication faster, fairer, and more useful. We do this by developing innovative software and high quality services for the global research community. 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Also discoverable on Platform About Our Team In Review Editorial Policies Advisory Board Help Center Resources Author Services Accessibility API Access RSS feed Manage Cookie Preferences © Research Square 2026 | ISSN 2693-5015 (online) Privacy Policy Terms of Service Do Not Sell My Personal Information {"props":{"pageProps":{"initialData":{"identity":"rs-6639438","acceptedTermsAndConditions":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"archivedVersions":[],"articleType":"Research Article","associatedPublications":[],"authors":[{"id":486327565,"identity":"2909de24-1329-4d31-905c-ed355491b251","order_by":0,"name":"Marriam Waseem","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Bahria University","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Marriam","middleName":"","lastName":"Waseem","suffix":""},{"id":486327566,"identity":"1edc14ff-982d-4535-b237-d1210ba6999b","order_by":1,"name":"Hareem Fatima","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Bahria University","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Hareem","middleName":"","lastName":"Fatima","suffix":""},{"id":486327567,"identity":"c8d7c370-a41a-4c7c-b375-56efb90233f7","order_by":2,"name":"Muhammad Faran","email":"data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAZAAAAAyAQMAAABI0h/eAAAABlBMVEX///8AAABVwtN+AAAACXBIWXMAAA7EAAAOxAGVKw4bAAABB0lEQVRIiWNgGAWjYDAC5gNgKoGBmYHxMQPDAQY2EJcHiCVwaWFLgGthNiZRC5ApDdLCQEiLbhvzsw8/dzDkGRxnflZdUHMnn4/9AOODt20MeZIN2LWYHWMzntl7hqHY4DCb2e0Zx55ZtvEkMBvObWMolsZhi9n9BmMG3jaGxA2Hedhu87AdNmBjSGCTBonMw6XlGPtnxr9QLcU8/4Ba+B+w/8avhceYGWYLkAHUIpHABhaZjVtLMbNsm0Sx5GE2Y+mZfSAtD5sl55wDiuD0PvtmxrdtNnl85w8//Fzw7bCBfH/ywQ9vymzyJA7gsAYCUOKAEWS8RAJeDVgBGVpGwSgYBaNgmAIAxqZUzhcYTw8AAAAASUVORK5CYII=","orcid":"","institution":"Bahria University","correspondingAuthor":true,"prefix":"","firstName":"Muhammad","middleName":"","lastName":"Faran","suffix":""},{"id":486327568,"identity":"19a98b24-47ea-41a8-8ac1-8be748dad7e0","order_by":3,"name":"Hina Hafeez","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Bahria University","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Hina","middleName":"","lastName":"Hafeez","suffix":""},{"id":486327569,"identity":"f08c4476-7575-4ed1-8f04-1d70ca1d34e8","order_by":4,"name":"Muhammad Fayyaz","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Combined Military Hospital","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Muhammad","middleName":"","lastName":"Fayyaz","suffix":""}],"badges":[],"createdAt":"2025-05-11 12:08:15","currentVersionCode":1,"declarations":"","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-6639438/v1","doiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-6639438/v1","draftVersion":[],"editorialEvents":[],"editorialNote":"","failedWorkflow":false,"files":[{"id":87037548,"identity":"37fb8c78-42cd-497b-9d8d-0b8d65d37c97","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-07-18 13:24:12","extension":"jpg","order_by":1,"title":"Figure 1","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":310944,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eEmpirical Results of Mediation Analysis of Peer Delinquency between Dark Tetrad Traits (Machiavellianism, Narcissism, Psychopathy and Sadism and Criminogenic Cognitions in Adolescents\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"Figure1.jpg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-6639438/v1/962de6488c2d9aa5823cb1ca.jpg"},{"id":99582197,"identity":"70bb0324-957d-4f38-a9a8-6bab9bc6199f","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2026-01-06 06:41:13","extension":"pdf","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"manuscript-pdf","size":1156449,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"manuscript.pdf","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-6639438/v1/d5a7ed97-5bb7-4dcc-9ee2-721619d92d09.pdf"}],"financialInterests":"No competing interests reported.","formattedTitle":"Dark Tetrad Personality Traits and Criminogenic Cognitions: Peer Delinquency as a Mediator in Destitute Adolescents","fulltext":[{"header":"Background","content":"\u003cp\u003eAdolescents in Pakistan, specifically those from underprivileged backgrounds, are at a risk for developing delinquency and criminal thinking patterns due to the socio-economic hardships they face. In Pakistan, over 38% of the population is multidimensionally poor, with an additional 12.9% subjected as vulnerable to poverty (PBS, 2020). In fact, the 7th Population and Housing Census results indicate that children under 18 make up a large portion of the Pakistani population, many of whom are vulnerable due to lack of parental care, economic instability, and social displacement. (PBS, 2023). Criminal behaviour and thinking patterns have extensively been researched upon in the Western populations, where the culture is mainly individualistic. Whereas collectivistic cultures such as of Pakistan where factors like social and peer influence can shape thinking patterns, remains unexplored. The current study aims to explore the influence of socially aversive personalities; dark tetrad traits (Machiavellianism, narcissism, psychopathy and sadism) and peer delinquency in the shaping of criminogenic cognitions. Research suggests that dark tetrad traits may predispose individuals to seek and be with delinquent peers that foster antisocial attitudes. In turn, peer delinquency contributes to a greater inclination towards criminogenic cognitions by normalizing and validating these traits within their social environments (Walters, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2016\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOver two decades ago, dark triad was introduced which constituted of three malevolent personality traits; Machiavellianism categorized by manipulation and deceit, narcissism which is a grandiose sense of self and psychopathy composed of lack of empathy and remorse (Aluja et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). However, 7 years later, sadism was added, forming the dark tetrad. (Furnham \u0026amp; Horne, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e). Sadism refers to inflicting pain or humiliation upon others and deriving pleasure from it. Sadism is also associated with pervasive sexual behaviours (Marshall et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2002\u003c/span\u003e). A key factor between dark tetrad traits is callousness defined as lack of empathy which allows individuals with dark tetrad personality traits to partake in deviant behaviours without feeling any remorse (Zafar, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR30\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ePeer delinquency refers to the influence of delinquent peers on an individual\u0026rsquo;s commitment in antisocial or criminal behaviours. The effect of peer delinquency can be direct or indirect. Individuals with dark personality traits exhibit low empathy, manipulative tendencies and a conscious disregard for social norms, such individuals find comfort in environments where these behaviours are welcomed and normalized (Zettler et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR32\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e) Peer delinquency not only serves as a social reinforcement mechanism but also as a cognitive echo chamber which amplifies criminal thinking patterns and diminishes moral constraints (Vaughn et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e). Previous research has shown peer delinquency as a strong predictor of adolescent engagement in various gangs. Individuals often seek acceptance and status through engaging in deviant activities (Wright \u0026amp; Cullen, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR28\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e). Moreover, studies have shown that certain types of crimes, such as substance abuse and violence may be particularly significant to peer influence (Stewart \u0026amp; McBride, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR20\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). Research also suggests that the effect of peer delinquency can be enhanced by other factors, such as individual personality traits and family dynamics. Adolescents from maladjusted families or those with high levels of aggression may be more prone to peer delinquency and are more likely to adopt criminal behaviours (Farrington et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e). Similarly, Jonason et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR9\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2015\u003c/span\u003e) demonstrated in a sample of 1149 participants that individuals with high scores in Dark Tetrad traits are more likely to exhibit antisocial behaviour when surrounded by delinquent peers, highlighting the reinforcing role of peer influence.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCriminogenic cognitions refer to thinking patterns and beliefs that justify or rationalize criminal behaviour, allowing individuals to minimize guilt and moral responsibility. Common criminogenic cognitions include various beliefs such as \"everyone else is doing it,\" \"I deserve it,\" or \"the rules don't apply to me,\u0026rdquo;. Research has also shown that a link exists between criminogenic cognitions and personality disorders, such as psychopathy, where individuals may show more extreme forms of moral disengagement (Viding et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR23\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e). Furthermore, the influence of Dark Tetrad traits on bullying victimization and perpetration were examined in research by Pineda et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e). The results showed that psychopathy and sadism were strong predictors of an individual\u0026rsquo;s contribution in bullying and other delinquent behaviours, suggesting a link between these traits and peer delinquency. Additionally, studies have suggested that the Dark Tetrad traits contribute to criminogenic cognitions. Research by Vize et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR24\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e) indicated that individuals with high levels of psychopathy and Machiavellianism exhibit cognitive distortions that minimize the consequences of their actions and justify exploitative or harmful behaviour. These criminogenic cognitions can be further reinforced through peer delinquency, as association with delinquent peers reduces moral inhibitions against offending and increases exposure to criminal justifications (Walters, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR27\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhile previous studies have addressed individual traits in isolation and previously, peer delinquency is a well-established predictor of criminal behaviour but its interaction with dark tetrad traits in shaping criminogenic cognitions remains misunderstood.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe current study explores the relationship between dark tetrad traits and peer delinquency is shaping criminogenic cognitions in destitute adolescents, we hypothesised that\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003col\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eThere will be a positive relationship between dark tetrad traits (Machiavellianism, narcissism, psychopathy and sadism), peer delinquency and criminogenic cognitions among destitute adolescents.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003ePeer delinquency will mediate the relationship between dark tetrad traits and criminogenic cognitions among destitute adolescents.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/ol\u003e\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Methods","content":"\u003cdiv id=\"Sec3\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003eStudy Design and Setting\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eA cross-sectional, descriptive design was conducted from May to December 2024. The specific \u003cb\u003eaims\u003c/b\u003e were as follows: (1) This study aims to examine the relationship between dark tetrad personality traits (Machiavellianism, narcissism, psychopathy, and sadism), peer delinquency, and criminogenic cognitions among destitute adolescents, (2) and to explore the mediating role of peer delinquency in the link between dark tetrad traits and criminogenic cognitions.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe sample was selected from child protection units and respective orphanages from Rawalpindi and Islamabad. The inclusion criteria of the study were only those destitute individuals who (1) committed minor crimes or misdemeanours before (2) admitted by parents or guardians (3) had been residing in the institution for at least 3 months. Destitute individuals who were suffering from any kind of physical disability or conduct disorder were excluded from the study. In the case of incomplete questionnaires, the samples were excluded from the study.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSample Size and participants\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eG* Power calculator generated a sample size of 102 participants. Non-probability purposive sampling technique was employed to select the participants. 120 participants were recruited, and 109 participants met study\u0026rsquo;s inclusion criteria. Out of these, 11 were excluded due to their non-completion of screening measures or their mismatch with the inclusion criteria.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eData Collection\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEthical approval\u003c/strong\u003e\u003cp\u003e for this study was obtained from the Institutional Ethical Review Board (IERB) of Bahria University, Islamabad, Pakistan (Reference No. IERB/BUIC/PP/2024/004), in accordance with the ethical standards outlined in the American Psychological Association\u0026rsquo;s Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct, and the Declaration of Helsinki. After obtaining ethical approval, permission was taken from the institutional authorities, and data was collected in person through multiple visits. All participants were informed of the study\u0026rsquo;s aim and methods and assured of their anonymity and data confidentiality. As the study included participants below the age of 18 (considered minors under Pakistani law), informed consent was obtained from the parents or legal guardians of all participants under the age of 18, along with assent from the minors themselves, appropriate to their age and level of understanding. In addition to the written information on the informed consent form, participants were also verbally briefed. The time to complete the surveys was approximately 30 minutes.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eMeasures\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec7\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003eShort Dark Tetrad 4 (SD4)\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eShort Dark Tetrad 4 (SD4) was developed by Paulhus et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e) and translated into Urdu by Yusuf et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR29\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2024\u003c/span\u003e), was used to measure the extent of dark personality traits. It comprises of 28 items, consisting of four seven-item subscales. A 5-point Likert scale is used to tap the responses of participants. The responses can range from 1 (strongly disagree) to 5 (strongly agree). An example item is \u0026ldquo;It\u0026rsquo;s not wise to let people know your secrets.\u0026rdquo; The internal reliability of Short Dark Tetrad 4 as reported by Paulhus et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e), was narcissism α\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;.74, machiavellianism α\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;.80, psychopathy α\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;.75 and sadism α\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;.80.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec8\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003eCriminogenic Cognitions Scale (CCS)\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Criminogenic Cognitions Scale (CCS) was developed by Tangney et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e) and translated into Urdu by Jamil et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e), was used to measure cognitive patterns related to criminal thinking. It comprises 25 items, consisting of five dimensions. A 4-point Likert scale is used to tap the responses of participants. The responses can range from 1 (strongly disagree) to 4 (strongly agree). An example item is \u0026ldquo;When I want something, I expect people to deliver.\u0026rdquo; The internal reliability of Criminogenic Cognitions Scale as reported by Tangney et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e), was α\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;.81.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePeer Delinquency Scale\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePeer Delinquency Scale was developed by Jang et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR8\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2015\u003c/span\u003e) and translated into Urdu by Muhammad Asim et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e), was used to measure how many of the respondent\u0026rsquo;s peers are involved in delinquent activities. It comprises 8 items. A 4-point Likert scale is used to tap the responses of participants. The responses can range from 1 (none of them) to 4 (most of them). An example item is \u0026ldquo;I often hang out with friends who get into trouble\u0026rdquo;. The internal reliability of Peer Delinquency Scale as reported by Jang et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR8\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2015\u003c/span\u003e), was α\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;.88.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec10\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003eStatistical Analysis\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eDescriptive statistics and correlation analysis were analysed using IBM SPSS v27. A structural equation model (SEM) with AMOS 24.0 maximum likelihood estimation was used to test the hypothesized model. To examine the model fit, multiple fit indices, including the relative chi-square statistic (χ\u003csup\u003e2\u003c/sup\u003e/\u003cem\u003edf\u003c/em\u003e ), Goodness of fit index (GFI), comparative fit index (CFI), non-normed fit index (NNFI), root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA), standardized root mean square (SRMR) were used. Further, mediation analysis was carried out including direct and indirect effect along with a bootstrapping method at a 95% bias-corrected confidence interval (CI) throughout the statistical analyses.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"Results","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab1\" border=\"1\"\u003e\u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 1\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eDescriptive Statistics of Demographic Characteristics of the Adolescents (N\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;109).\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/caption\u003e\u003ccolgroup cols=\"5\"\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eVariables\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eƒ\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e(%)\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eM\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eSD\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/thead\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eAge (years)\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e13.2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.0\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eAge at Admission\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e9.9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eGender\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eGirls\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e45\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e41.3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eBoys\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e64\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e58.7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eWho were you admitted by\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eParents\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e68\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e62.4\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eGuardian\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e41\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e37.6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tbody\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\u003ctfoot\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd colspan=\"5\"\u003eNote: ƒ= frequencies of demographic variables, %= percentages, M\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;mean, SD\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;standard deviation.\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tfoot\u003e\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTable\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e shows that the average age of the participants was found to be 13.2 years with a standard deviation of 3.0. Out of the 109 participants, 76 (69.7%) were early adolescents and 33 (30.3%) were late adolescents. The average age at the time of admission was 9.9 years with a standard deviation of 3.1.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn a sample of 109 participants, 64 (58.7%) were male while 45 individuals (41.3%) were female. Most participants 68 (62.4%) were admitted by their parents while the remainder 41 by guardians (37.6%).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab2\" border=\"1\"\u003e\u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 2\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eDescriptive Statistics and Reliability Analysis of Dark Tetrad Traits, Peer Delinquency and Criminogenic Cognitions in Adolescents (N\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;109).\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/caption\u003e\u003ccolgroup cols=\"7\"\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c7\" colnum=\"7\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eVariables\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003ek\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eM\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eSD\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c6\" namest=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eRange\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eα\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eActual\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003ePotential\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/thead\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDark Tetrad\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eMachiavellianism\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e30.4\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4.6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e17\u0026ndash;35\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e7\u0026ndash;35\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e.70\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNarcissism\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e26.7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5.74\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e12\u0026ndash;35\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e7\u0026ndash;35\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e.77\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ePsychopathy\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e20.2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e6.9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e7\u0026ndash;34\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e7\u0026ndash;35\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e.70\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eSadism\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e23.4\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e6.1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e8\u0026ndash;34\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e7\u0026ndash;35\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e.71\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003ePeer Delinquency\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e12.3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4.2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e8\u0026ndash;22\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e8\u0026ndash;32\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e.75\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCriminogenic Cognitions\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e25\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e62.6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e15.4\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e37\u0026ndash;92\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e25\u0026ndash;100\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e.70\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eShort Term Orientation\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e13.1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4.9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5\u0026ndash;20\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5\u0026ndash;25\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e.84\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNotions of Entitlement\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e15.2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4.6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5\u0026ndash;20\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5\u0026ndash;25\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e.80\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eFailure to Accept Responsibility\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e11.1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4.6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5\u0026ndash;20\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5\u0026ndash;25\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e.74\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNegative Attitude Towards Authority\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e11.0\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4.7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5\u0026ndash;20\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5\u0026ndash;25\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e.82\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eInsensitivity to Impact of Crime\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e13.46\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4.7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5\u0026ndash;20\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5\u0026ndash;25\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e.75\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tbody\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\u003ctfoot\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd colspan=\"7\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eNote\u003c/b\u003e: k\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;number of items, M\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;mean, SD\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;standard deviation and α\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;Cronbach Alpha\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tfoot\u003e\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTable\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab2\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e shows the descriptive statistics and reliability analysis for the study variables including their sub-scales. Mean, standard deviation and number of items of dark tetrad traits, peer delinquency and criminogenic cognition including their subscales were presented in the table.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFurthermore, the reliability analysis showed that Cronbach alpha reliabilities for the subscales of dark tetrad traits were .70, .77, .70 and .71 respectively. Additionally, the reliability analysis showed that the Cronbach alpha reliability of peer delinquency was .75. Criminogenic cognition had a Cronbach alpha reliability of .70 while its subscales were .84, ,80, .74, .82, .75 respectively.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec12\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003ePearson Product Moment Correlation Analysis\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt was hypothesized that there is likely to be a positive relationship between for dark tetrad traits (Machiavellianism, narcissism, psychopathy and sadism), peer delinquency and criminogenic cognitions (short term orientation, notions of entitlement, failure to accept responsibility, negative attitude towards authority, insensitivity to impact of crime) among destitute youth. Pearson product moment correlation analysis was conducted to investigate the relationship between dark tetrad traits, peer delinquency and criminogenic cognitions.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab3\" border=\"1\"\u003e\u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 3\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eBivariate Correlation Between Dark Tetrad Traits (Machiavellianism, Narcissism, Psychopathy and Sadism), Peer Delinquency and Criminogenic Cognitions in Adolescents (N\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;109).\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/caption\u003e\u003ccolgroup cols=\"6\"\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eVariables\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e2\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e3\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e4\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e5\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e6\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/thead\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDark Tetrad\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1-Machiavellianism\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e.32***\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e.15\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e.20*\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e.47***\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e.16\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2-Narcissism\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e.31***\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e.19*\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e.02\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e.03\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3- Psychopathy\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e.10\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e29**\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e.21*\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4-Sadism\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e.24*\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e.24*\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e5- Peer Delinquency\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e.47***\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e6- Criminogenic Cognitions\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tbody\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec13\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e*p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;.05, **p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;.01, ***p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;.001\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe results of Pearson product moment correlation analysis (see Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab3\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e) showed that among dark tetrad traits including Machiavellianism, psychopathy, and sadism were found to be significantly positively correlated with peer delinquency. However, narcissism was found to be non-significantly correlated with peer delinquency. Meanwhile, psychopathy and sadism were found to be significantly positively correlated with criminogenic cognition, whereas Machiavellianism and narcissism were non-significantly correlated with criminogenic cognition. Furthermore, peer delinquency was significantly positively correlated with criminogenic cognition.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eStructural equation modelling was employed to examine the mediating role of peer delinquency between the dark tetrad traits (Machiavellianism, narcissism, psychopathy and sadism) and criminogenic cognitions in adolescents.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe initial model's absolute fit, as evidenced by the chi-square test χ\u0026sup2; (25)\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;46.97, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;.05, indicated an excellent fit with the data. However, acknowledging the inherent limitations of the chi-square test regarding sample size and model complexity, we turned to additional fit indices (Goodness of fit index (GFI), comparative fit index (CFI), non-normed fit index (NNFI), root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA), standardized root mean square (SRMR) for a comprehensive evaluation. These indices RMSEA\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;.05, (SRMR)\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;.06, GFI\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;.95, CFI\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;.90, NNFI\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;.90, and χ\u0026sup2;/df\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;1.88 collectively suggested that the model demonstrated an excellent fit according to suggested standards of descriptive fit measures (see Fig.\u0026nbsp;1).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe estimates to be analyzed for direct and indirect effects after done with the model fit, dark tetrad traits (machiavellianism, narcissism, psychopathy and sadism), peer delinquency and criminogenic cognitions in adolescents with 5000 bootstrapped sample (see Table \u003cspan refid=\"Tab4\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e and \u003cspan refid=\"Tab5\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab4\" border=\"1\"\u003e\u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 4\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eStandardized Estimates of Direct Effects for Dark Tetrad Traits (Machiavellianism, Narcissism, Psychopathy and Sadism), and Criminogenic Cognitions in Adolescents (N\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;109).\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/caption\u003e\u003ccolgroup cols=\"7\"\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c7\" colnum=\"7\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eVariables\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c3\" namest=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ePeer Delinquency\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colspan=\"3\" nameend=\"c7\" namest=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eCriminogenic Cognitions\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eβ\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eSE\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eβ\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eSE\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colspan=\"1\" nameend=\"c7\" namest=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/thead\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eMachiavellianism\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e.31\u003csup\u003e***\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.18\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e.13\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.16\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"1\" nameend=\"c7\" namest=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNarcissisms\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e.08\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.09\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e.04\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.07\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"1\" nameend=\"c7\" namest=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ePsychopathy\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e.22*\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.12\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e.21\u003csup\u003e**\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.16\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"1\" nameend=\"c7\" namest=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eSadism\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e.19*\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.14\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e.17\u003csup\u003e*\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.11\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"1\" nameend=\"c7\" namest=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ePeer Delinquency\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e.33\u003csup\u003e***\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.19\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"1\" nameend=\"c7\" namest=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eTotal \u003cem\u003eR\u003c/em\u003e\u003csup\u003e\u003cem\u003e2\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e.312\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e.212\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"1\" nameend=\"c7\" namest=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tbody\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\u003ctfoot\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd colspan=\"7\"\u003e*\u003cem\u003ep\u003c/em\u003e\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;.05, **\u003cem\u003ep\u003c/em\u003e\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;.01, ***\u003cem\u003ep\u003c/em\u003e\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;.001\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tfoot\u003e\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Direct effect showed that Machiavellianism, psychopathy, and sadism were found to be significant positive predictors of peer delinquency. However, narcissism was found to be a non-significant predictor of peer delinquency. Meanwhile, psychopathy and sadism were also found to be significant positive predictors of criminogenic cognition, whereas Machiavellianism and narcissism were non-significantly predicted criminogenic cognition. Peer delinquency was significantly positively predicted by criminogenic cognition.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab5\" border=\"1\"\u003e\u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 5\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eStandardized Estimates of Indirect Effects through Peer Delinquency between Dark Tetrad Traits (Machiavellianism, Narcissism, Psychopathy and Sadism), and Criminogenic Cognitions in Adolescents (N\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;109).\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/caption\u003e\u003ccolgroup cols=\"3\"\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eVariables\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colspan=\"2\" nameend=\"c3\" namest=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eCriminogenic Cognitions\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eβ\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eSE\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/thead\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eMachiavellianism\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e.09*\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.07\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNarcissisms\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e.02\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.03\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ePsychopathy\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e.11*\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.09\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eSadism\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e.04*\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.02\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tbody\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e*\u003cem\u003ep\u003c/em\u003e\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;.05. **\u003cem\u003ep\u003c/em\u003e\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;.01.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe results of indirect effect showed that peer delinquency was found to be a significant positive mediator between dark tetrad traits including (machiavellianism, psychopathy and sadism), and criminogenic cognitions in adolescents. Which showed that increase in machiavellianism, psychopathy and sadism traits tend to increase peer delinquency. While increase in peer delinquency in-turn increases criminogenic cognitions in adolescents.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"Discussion","content":"\u003cp\u003eThe results of this study offer valuable insights into the complex interplay between dark tetrad traits, peer delinquency and criminogenic cognitions among destitute adolescents. The findings reveal that Machiavellianism, psychopathy and sadism were significantly positively correlated with peer delinquency supporting the presumption that individuals with dark tetrad traits are inclined to seek out delinquent peers which reinforce and mirror their antisocial conduct (Zafar \u0026amp; Qurat-ul-ain, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR31\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSimilarly, the significant positive correlation between psychopathy, sadism and criminogenic cognitions emphasizes the internal psychological mechanisms that direct antisocial thinking. Psychopathy and sadism are both strongly associated with a diminished capacity for remorse and moral disengagement (Jones \u0026amp; Paulhus, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2011\u003c/span\u003e; Buckels et al., 2013). This internal nature likely weakens the psychological barriers that usually deter antisocial behaviours leading to the facilitation of development of criminogenic cognitions. Furthermore, there were no significant correlations between narcissism and both peer delinquency as well as criminogenic cognitions. This can be explained by the complex deposition of narcissism which sometimes can align with socially adaptive behaviours specifically in instances where self-image is connected to socially acceptable success (Jonason et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e). Hence, narcissism may not always predispose individuals to deviant peers and subsequently criminal thinking patterns. The positive correlation between peer delinquency and criminogenic cognitions is consistent with a substantial body of psychological and criminological literature that emphasizes the role of delinquent peers in shaping criminal thinking patterns. Differential association theory suggests that individuals learn criminal behaviour through the process of modeling, reinforcement and group conformity (Akers, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2009\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe results of the mediation analysis further support this by underscoring peer delinquency as a pathway through which individuals with dark personality traits exhibit influence on criminogenic cognitions. Notably, Machiavellianism, psychopathy and sadism were significant positive predictors of peer delinquency which suggests such a process of social reinforcement where not only are deviant peers a model but also help normalize and validate cognitive distortions that foster antisocial attitudes and behaviours (Paulhus et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e; Jonason et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e). In contrast, narcissism was found to be a non-significant predictor of peer delinquency, this aligns with previous research suggesting that narcissistic individuals may be more concerned with maintaining a grandiose sense of self, seeking praise and admiration rather than engaging in over peer delinquent relationships (Miller et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2007\u003c/span\u003e). They are often preoccupied with maintaining an inflated sense of self, justifying their actions in a manner that preserves their ego (Morf \u0026amp; Rhodewalt, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2001\u003c/span\u003e). This finding suggests that narcissists may influence antisocial attitudes and behaviours through a potentially less direct path which may be focused more on self-serving rationalizations rather than peer influence.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFurthermore, psychopathy and sadism were found to be significant positive predictors of criminogenic cognitions supporting their central role in shaping criminal thinking patterns. These traits are associated with moral disengagement and effective deficits, reducing the psychological barriers present in validating and endorsing criminal behaviours (Hare \u0026amp; Neumann, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2008\u003c/span\u003e; Vaughn et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e). Destitute adolescents high in psychopathy or sadism may exhibit higher levels of short-term orientation, insensitivity to harm or entitlement, all of which are cognitive constructs linked to recidivism and delinquency (Walters, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2012\u003c/span\u003e). In contrast, Machiavellianism and narcissism were found to be non-significant predictors of criminogenic cognitions which suggests antisocial conduct may be influenced by these traits through more strategic or self-enhancing cognitive patterns which may not directly align with the cognitive components measured in this study. Importantly, peer delinquency was found to be a significant positive predictor of criminogenic cognitions highlighting the crucial mediating role of social environment in the facilitation of criminal thinking patterns. This supports past research which emphasizes the role of delinquent peers in fostering cognitive distortions and moral rationalizations that promote criminal behaviours (McCutcheon et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2016\u003c/span\u003e; Walters, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2012\u003c/span\u003e). Destitute adolescents, through repeated exposure to delinquent norms and reinforcement to offending conduct within their deviant groups are more likely to adhere and adopt criminogenic beliefs thus also increasing their susceptibility to criminal behaviours.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe results of the mediation analysis showed that dark tetrad traits lead to an increase in peer delinquency which then in turn increases criminogenic cognitions. This supports the perspective that there is a dynamic interaction between personality traits and environment. It also reflects upon the reinforcement and social learning models of deviance which argue that peer influence plays a crucial role in shaping attitudes and behaviours related to crime (Akers, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2009\u003c/span\u003e). Individuals with dark personality traits prefer a social environment that aligns with their nature which in turn shapes their beliefs and attitudes (Vaughn et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e). Delinquent peers offer both direct encouragement and subtle reinforcement which strengthens criminal thinking patterns. Similarly, such individuals may not only be predisposed to sought out deviant peers but are also more susceptible to endorsing antisocial behaviours and thinking patterns through their continuous exposure to deviant groups. In this way peer delinquency is like a conduit through which dark personality traits are shaped into criminogenic cognitions, especially in vulnerable populations where their life circumstances contribute to facing compromised moral and social development (Vaughn et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec15\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003eLimitations\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe present study has several limitations. First, the data collection was particularly challenging since the destitute adolescents were always not available because of their presence at the trails. Second, the destitute adolescents were mostly relocated or would leave due to personal reasons. Third, since the destitute adolescents were mostly not able to comprehend the items and response categories, the administration was particularly challenging. Fourth, the institutes were reluctant in giving out information. Lastly, the psychological (dark tetrad) and social perspectives (peer delinquency) were catered in the study, but the history of abuse was not taken into consideration. Therefore, further longitudinal research will be needed.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec16\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003eStrengths\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eDespite the mentioned limitations, the study bridges a gap in literature where marginalized populations are often underexplored. Its focus on destitute adolescents highlights the risk factors unique to this population including family dynamics, early admission into shelters and peer influences revealing significant developmental differences and gender disparities. It further emphasizes the role of social environment in shaping maladaptive thought processes and how it could help mitigate long-term risks of criminal behaviour.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"Conclusion","content":"\u003cp\u003eThe results of the present study highlight the intricate relationship between dark tetrad traits, peer delinquency and criminogenic cognitions among destitute adolescents, revealing how specific personality traits like Machiavellianism, psychopathy and sadism, when reinforced by delinquent peer associations, significantly shape criminal thinking. The findings underscore the crucial mediating role of the social environment, suggesting that peer delinquency acts as a conduit through which dark tetrad traits influence criminogenic cognitions. Thus, this research emphasizes the need for targeted interventions addressing both psychological traits and social contexts to prevent long-term criminal outcomes.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Abbreviations","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionList\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eM\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eMean\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eSD\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eStandard Deviation\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e\u003cb\u003ef\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eFrequency\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e%\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ePercentage\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e\u003cb\u003ek\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNumber of items\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eα\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eCronbach's Alpha Reliability\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e\u003cb\u003ep\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eSignificance Level\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eβ\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eregression coefficients\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eCL\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eConfidence Level\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eLL\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eLower Boundary\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eUL\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eUpper Boundary\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e\u003cb\u003et\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e\u003cp\u003et value\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eB\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eUnstandardized Beta\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eSE\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eStandard Error\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eη2\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eeta square (effect size)\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eSEB\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eCoefficient Standard Error\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eSD4\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eShort Dark Tetrad 4\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eCCS\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eCriminogenic Cognitions Scale\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eχ\u003c/b\u003e\u003csup\u003e\u003cb\u003e2\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/sup\u003e\u003cb\u003e/df\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eChi-square Statistics\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGFI\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eGoodness of fit index\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eCFI\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eComparative fit index\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eNNFI\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNon-Normed fit index\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eRMSEA\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eRoot Mean Square Error of Approximation\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"DefinitionListEntry\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Term\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eSRMR\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"Description\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eStandardized Root Mean Square\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"Declarations","content":"\u003cp\u003eEthics approval and consent to participate\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis study was approved by the Institutional Ethical Review Board (IERB) of Bahria University Islamabad, reference number IERB/BUIC/PP/2024/004.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConsent for publication\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot applicable\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAvailability of data and materials\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe datasets generated and/or analysed during the current study are not publicly available due to the necessity to ensure participant confidentiality policies and laws of the country but are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCompeting interests\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe authors declare no competing interests.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFunding\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis research did not receive funding from any source.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAuthors\u0026apos; contributions\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eM. Waseem, H. Fatima = conceptualization and Methodology, M. Faran = Results and Data Analysis, M. Fayyaz = Discussion and Conclusion\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAcknowledgements\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNil\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAkers RL. Social learning and social structure: A general theory of crime and deviance. Transaction.; 2009.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAluja A, et al. The dark triad and personality traits: An integrative review. J Personal Soc Psychol. 2022;113(4):789\u0026ndash;805. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1037/pspp0000389\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1037/pspp0000389\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFarrington DP, et al. 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J adolescents Adolescence. 2024;53(6):917\u0026ndash;30. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1007/s10964 024-01673-x\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1007/s10964 024-01673-x\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eZafar T, Qurat-ul-ain A. Relationship of Tetrad Dark Personality Traits and Delinquent Behavior among Adolescents: Moderating Role of Social Support. Crit Rev Social Sci Stud. 2023;1(1):1\u0026ndash;12. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.59075/4y8wa629\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.59075/4y8wa629\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eZettler I, Moshagen M, Hilbig BE. Stability and change: The dark factor of personality shapes dark traits. Social Psychol Personality Sci. 2021;12(6):974\u0026ndash;83. \u003cspan class=\"ExternalRef\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"RefSource\"\u003ehttps://doi.org/10.1177/1948550620942603\u003c/span\u003e\u003cspan address=\"10.1177/1948550620942603\" targettype=\"DOI\" class=\"RefTarget\"\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ol\u003e"}],"fulltextSource":"","fullText":"","funders":[],"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow":false,"hasManuscriptDocX":true,"hasOptedInToPreprint":true,"hasPassedJournalQc":"","hasAnyPriority":false,"hideJournal":true,"highlight":"","institution":"","isAcceptedByJournal":false,"isAuthorSuppliedPdf":false,"isDeskRejected":"","isHiddenFromSearch":false,"isInQc":false,"isInWorkflow":false,"isPdf":false,"isPdfUpToDate":true,"isWithdrawnOrRetracted":false,"journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true},"keywords":"Dark tetrad traits, Peer delinquency, Criminogenic cognitions, Destitute adolescents","lastPublishedDoi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-6639438/v1","lastPublishedDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-6639438/v1","license":{"name":"CC BY 4.0","url":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"},"manuscriptAbstract":"\u003ch2\u003eBackground\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003ePakistan, characterized by its vast population and increasing stark socio-economic discrepancies, is witnessing a surge in juvenile delinquency, fuelled by rising urban poverty and crime. Despite the growing concerns, existing literature on the Dark Tetrad traits and peer delinquency\u0026rsquo;s influence on criminogenic cognitions among destitute adolescents is scarce. The existing studies tend to address personality traits, juvenile delinquency or peer influence in isolation and are rarely specific to destitute populations. Similarly, they are more concentrated on general youth or western contexts, overlooking the cultural nuances. Therefore, this study is essential in providing insights for localized risk factors, targeted prevention and rehabilitation strategies in a high-risk yet understudied population.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eMethods\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe present study was cross-sectional research conducted on 109 destitute adolescents from May to December 2024. The participants were selected via non-probability purposive sampling. This research used Short Dark Tetrad 4, Criminogenic Cognitions Scale and Peer Delinquency Scale. The collected data was then analysed using descriptive tests, Pearson Product Moment Correlation, and Mediation Analysis.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eResults\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe results showed that the relationship between dark tetrad traits and criminogenic cognitions was mediated by peer delinquency, indicating that increase in Machiavellianism, psychopathy and sadism traits tend to increase peer delinquency. While increase in peer delinquency in-turn increases criminogenic cognitions in adolescents.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eConclusion\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eAccording to the results, peer delinquency serves as a key mediator through which dark tetrad traits contribute to the development of criminogenic cognitions. Therefore, the need for targeted interventions is significant in vulnerable youth populations.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"Dark Tetrad Personality Traits and Criminogenic Cognitions: Peer Delinquency as a Mediator in Destitute Adolescents","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2025-07-18 13:24:03","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-6639438/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"ebfdcb55-faac-4509-932d-12b142b64902","owner":[],"postedDate":"July 18th, 2025","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"posted","subjectAreas":[],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2026-01-06T06:40:13+00:00","versionOfRecord":[],"versionCreatedAt":"2025-07-18 13:24:03","video":"","vorDoi":"","vorDoiUrl":"","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-6639438","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-6639438","identity":"rs-6639438","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"8U1c8b4HqxoKbykW_rLl7","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}