The impact of social media on juvenile delinquency. A case of Highfiled (Jerusalem Area) in 2024. · Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Author

Gwamure, Praise

Title

The impact of social media on juvenile delinquency. A case of Highfiled (Jerusalem Area) in 2024.

Abstract

This study examined the impact of social media on juvenile delinquency, focusing on the case of Highfield (Jerusalem area) in 2024. This study examined the following objectives, the nature of delinquency of the juveniles, determined the causes of social media related delinquency in juveniles and identified the specific challenges that hinder adolescents’ efforts to resist delinquent behavior while using social media. The study highlighted the dual role of social media as a catalyst for delinquent behavior and potential tool for positive change among adolescents. The social learning theory and the cultural deviance theory were utilized as guiding theoretical frameworks. The study employed the qualitative research approach to collect data using focus group discussions and in depth interviews with 8 juveniles, a community care worker and a child protection officer. Focus group discussion guide and semi structured in depth interview guides were the data collection tools that were employed to gather data from the study participants. Purposive sampling technique was used to select juveniles who were the study’s target population and snowball sampling technique to select key informants. The findings indicate the correlation between social media usage and various forms of delinquency including, theft, sexual assault, drug and substance abuse and bullying. Peer pressure, exposure to inappropriate content and lack of parental supervision emerged as critical factors that are contributing to these behaviors. Furthermore socioeconomic challenges were identified as increasing the risks associated with social media. The research highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions and community support systems to mitigate the adverse effects of social media on young people. The study concludes that while social media offers advantages like enhanced connectivity and access to information it is also contributing to juvenile delinquency. Recommendations were also provided for stakeholders, including educators, policy makers as well as community organizations to promote responsible social media use and foster a supportive environment for adolescents.

Date

June 2025

Publisher

BUSE

Keywords

Social Media

Juvenile Delinquency

Supervisor

Mr. M. Sadomba