Socio-Psychological Factors of Youth Deviant Behavior in the Contemporary Era and Their Impact on Social Development Mechanisms: Forms and Patterns of Influence

The mechanism of social development in any society is fundamentally built upon mutual respect, harmonious interpersonal relations, stable behavioral norms, and appropriate methods of upbringing. To ensure this, it is essential to establish a healthy social environment, apply suitable educational methods, and adhere to the traditional customs and behavioral standards embedded in the society’s collective memory across generations. However, in contrast to these normative constructs, the phenomenon of deviance also exists—a behavioral framework rooted in an individual’s socio-psychological world, level of consciousness, interaction with the surrounding environment, and the mechanisms shaping the broader societal structure.Deviance refers to a sequence of behaviors observed in individuals that deviate from accepted societal norms, moral standards, and the traditional methods of upbringing. These behaviors are often incompatible with established social systems or are perceived as foreign or abnormal, and in many cases, rebellious in nature. Historically, deviant behavior has been observed across all human societies. In contemporary times, deviance is particularly characteristic of youth lifestyles and manifests in various forms, including alcoholism, drug addiction, domestic conflicts, criminal behavior, moral decline, depression, suicide, and other related issues.The study of deviant behavior holds significant relevance for both Iranian and Azerbaijani societies, especially in identifying effective preventive measures tailored to each socio-cultural context. Today, we live in a modern society that is rapidly integrating with Europe and embracing new values and organized social systems. Our contemporary society is marked by diversity and multidimensionality. In this context, it is critically important for young people in our country—amid the process of global integration—to adopt proper educational and moral development frameworks. This includes respecting and reinforcing socially accepted norms and values, preserving moral traditions, and understanding the mechanisms and expressions of moral growth.As the world continues to globalize, its effects—both positive and negative—inevitably influence newly emerging, economically stable societies. On the positive side, such influences can enhance the intellectual potential of youth, fostering their development into honest, patriotic, and socially responsible individuals. Conversely, negative influences may arise due to a lack of willpower or ineffective parenting, leading to the adoption and normalization of inappropriate or deviant behaviors.