Assessing the impact of Socio-economic factors on Juvenile Delinquency in rural Zimbabwe. A Case study of Chiadzwa communal area, for the period January 2020- December 2023
- Author
- Mawire, Christine.
- Title
- Assessing the impact of Socio-economic factors on Juvenile Delinquency in rural Zimbabwe. A Case study of Chiadzwa communal area, for the period January 2020- December 2023
- Abstract
-
Juvenile delinquency has corrupted the youth who are meant to be leaders of tomorrow. Socio-economic factors have contributed immensely to juvenile delinquency .Juvenile delinquency has been on the rise in urban areas but has also migrated to rural areas where it is evident that the youth are being engaged in crime due to various socio-economic factors. The study was hinged on assessing the impact of socio-economic factors on juvenile delinquency in rural Zimbabwe. A case study of Chiadzwa communal area, for the period January 2020- December 2023.The study was guided by four main objectives: to identify the socio-economic factors contributing to juvenile delinquency in Chiadzwa communal area, to determine the types and prevalence rates of juvenile crimes in Chiadzwa communal area, to determine challenges faced by Chiadzwa Communal area in addressing juvenile delinquency and to determine the evidence based strategies to curb juvenile delinquency in Chiadzwa Communal area. A sample size of 60 from five key sectors in Chiadzwa namely: secondary educational institutions, local communities, Zimbabwe Republic Police, traditional leaders and non-governmental organisations. The data was scientifically analysed using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) 16.0 then tables, pie charts and bar graphs were used to present data. A descriptive research design was used where the researcher combined questionnaires and face to face interviews solicit information from respondents. The research revealed that poverty is the most significant factor contributing to delinquency and theft has emerged as the most prevalent crime in juveniles as they try to earn a living. The lack of institutional capacity to curb delinquency has compounded the situation. Efforts underway to reduce juvenile delinquency in Chiadzwa include awareness campaigns to ensure the social ill is fought. It is recommended to enhance legal aid as well as probation services. It is also recommended that special courts be established to deal juvenile matters.
- Date
- June 2025
- Publisher
- BUSE
- Keywords
- Socio-economic
- Juvenile
- Rural
- Supervisor
- Mrs. Gwanzura,
- Media
-
Mawire, Christine.pdf