Prevalence of Disinhibited Social Engagement Disorder among Iraqi Juvenile Delinquents: A Clinical Study

Abstract

The present study aims to examine Disinhibited Social Engagement Disorder (DSED) among juvenile delinquents in correctional institutions by identifying its prevalence rate, diagnosing its behavioral and psychological manifestations, and examining potential differences according to gender. The study adopted a descriptive methodology to describe and interpret the phenomenon. The sample consisted of 1,200 juvenile delinquents, including 779 males and 421 females, aged 16–21 years, drawn from six Iraqi governorates. A translated and culturally adapted instrument was used to measure Disinhibited Social Engagement Disorder in a manner appropriate to the Iraqi context. The results indicated that the disorder is present at a notable prevalence rate, reaching 20.17% of the total sample, with no statistically significant differences between males and females. The most common behavioral and psychological indicators were indiscriminate social behavior, poor awareness of personal boundaries, and rapid social engagement with strangers. These findings suggest that the institutional environment and social context play a more influential role in the development of the disorder than biological factors or gender-related differences. The study underscores the importance of adopting psychological and social intervention programs that consider cultural specificity, as well as strengthening rehabilitation services within correctional institutions to improve social interaction and reduce the likelihood of relapse during community reintegration.