Socio-Economic Drivers of Drug Abuse and Criminal Activities: A Multidimensional Analysis

This study investigates the complex socio-environmental, psychological, and economic factors influencing criminal involvement among individuals in Malaysia using a binary logistic regression framework. Drawing on data from 387 respondents, including those with and without criminal backgrounds, the analysis explores a wide range of predictors such as peer group pressure, poverty, mental health issues, environmental influences, social isolation, and familial conditions. Understanding the multifaceted roots of criminal activities remains a pressing concern across disciplines and sectors. This study explores a diverse set of social, psychological, and environmental variables to identify key predictors of criminal involvement. Drawing on data from a sample of individuals with varying life circumstances, a logistic regression model was employed to examine which factors significantly contribute to or deter engagement in criminal activities. The analysis uncovered several noteworthy patterns, including both expected and counterintuitive findings that challenge conventional assumptions. Beyond the statistical outcomes, the study provides critical insights with practical implications for policymakers, educators, social workers, and the criminal justice system. The results highlight the urgent need for targeted, multi-level interventions that address the broader context of individuals’ lives. Ultimately, this work offers a nuanced foundation for preventive and rehabilitative strategies to consider what truly drives crime in today’s complex world.