From Perpetrators to Partners: Juvenile Offenders Perspective on Student Mass Fighting Prevention in Indonesia

Abstract

Adolescent physical fights are a significant social problem worldwide, with a rising incidence of mass school fights in Indonesia highlighting the need for targeted interventions. Despite this, research often overlooks the perspectives of the offenders themselves. This study aims to address this gap by examining protective factors and prevention strategies from the viewpoint of Indonesian juvenile offenders. Using in-depth interviews and thematic analysis with four juvenile offenders across three correctional institutions, the research identifies several key strategies for prevention. These include strengthening parental connections, providing positive adult role models, severing ties with delinquent peers, and offering education on adaptive coping strategies. Effective prevention also involves establishing robust parent–child relationships and implementing school programs that address honor-related conflicts. Furthermore, the study suggests that educating adolescents about positive masculinity, incorporating anger management training, and utilizing cognitive-behavioral therapy can significantly reduce the likelihood of involvement in mass student fighting. By adopting these approaches, communities can more effectively address and mitigate the underlying factors contributing to adolescent violence and promote more constructive conflict resolution methods.