General strain theory is an established criminological theory. Although the theory has been examined by many, the propositions of mediating effects through negative emotions, lower social control, and criminogenic social learning environment are understudied. In addition, previous studies that touched on these mechanisms were limited to cross-sectional data or on samples from Western countries, mostly the United States. Consequently, proper casual relationships and possible cultural influences are ignored. The present study used a panel sample of youths from Taiwan to examine the three pathways from strains to deviance. We found that strains, school and family related, were related to deviance, and these strains increased student deviance by increasing depressive level, lowering school engagement, and increasing delinquent peer associations. Furthermore, we also found some complex relationships between these mediating factors, strains, and deviance. Some limitations were also discussed.
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