THEORETICAL APPROACHES AND SCIENTIFIC-METHODOLOGICAL FOUNDATIONS FOR STUDYING DEVIANT BEHAVIOR IN ADOLESCENTS

Abstract

This article examines the major theoretical approaches and scientific-methodological foundations for studying deviant behavior among adolescents. The study analyzes classical and contemporary sociological, psychological, and ecological theories that explain the nature, causes, and mechanisms of deviant behavior formation in young people. The article provides a comprehensive review of strain theory, social learning theory, social control theory, ecological systems theory, and general strain theory, evaluating their applicability to understanding adolescent deviance in modern contexts. The methodological framework for researching deviant behavior is discussed, including quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods approaches. The findings suggest that an integrative, multidisciplinary perspective is essential for a thorough understanding of adolescent deviant behavior.