Social Intelligence Deficits and Aggression in Children in Conflict with the Law: A Comparative Analysis

Introduction: Adolescents categorized as children in conflict with the law or children involved in legal conflicts (CCL) often present with social and behavioral difficulties that may increase vulnerability to delinquent conduct. This study examines how social intelligence (SI) relates to delinquent and problem behaviors by comparing CCL with typically developing adolescents (TDA) in Karnataka, India, and identifying the SI domains most strongly associated with behavioral concerns. Methods: A comparative cross-sectional design was used with 143 male adolescents aged 12–18 years (CCL = 68; TDA = 75). SI was measured using the Social Intelligence Scale (SIS), and behavioral difficulties were assessed using the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL). Between-group differences were examined to determine the nature and extent of SI deficits and their links with behavioral outcomes. Results: Compared with the TDA group, adolescents in the CCL group obtained significantly lower scores across SI domains, including social insight, cooperativeness, sensitivity, and confidence ( P < .001). Notable weaknesses were also observed in recognition of social environment, tactfulness, sense of humor, and memory. CBCL findings indicated that reduced SI was strongly associated with greater social problems, elevated aggression, and increased rule-breaking tendencies among CCL participants. Discussion: Deficits in SI appear to be an important contributor to delinquency-related behavior among CCL. Rehabilitation efforts may benefit from structured interventions that strengthen empathy, interpersonal skills, and relational functioning. Integrating SI-focused training into juvenile rehabilitation services may support pro-social development and potentially reduce recidivism.