Factors contributing to the increase in juvenile deliquency in Zimbabwe: The case of high-density urban residential areas

Abstract

Background

In this study, the researchers explored the risk factors and associated issues contributing to high rates of juvenile delinquency in overcrowded areas of urban Zimbabwe.

Objectives

The study aims to investigate the factors contributing to the increase in juvenile delinquency in high density suburbs of Zimbabwe and the types of delinquencies the children commit. It also seeks to explore ways of combating juvenile deliquency in high density areas in Zimbabwe.

Participants and settings

The study was conducted with 24 juveniles living in Mabvuku, Harare and 6 key informants providing child protection services (social workers and police officers) in this area.

Methods

Using a qualitative case study design, the researchers employed focus group discussions (FDGs) with juveniles and in-depth interviews with key informants in collecting data.

Results

The research established that poverty was the major determining factor to the increase in juvenile delinquency in overcrowded high-density suburbs. In addition, factors such as broken families, high rates of family and community criminality aggravated by high residential turnover and lack of social control, social media technologies and peer pressure were also reportedly increasing antisocial behaviour. The findings also revealed that juveniles living in overcrowded urban settings were involved in antisocial behaviours such as selling and abusing drugs and substances, early involvement in sexual activities, theft and violence, among others.

Conclusions

This study, therefore, suggests early identification of children in toxic family and community environments by community childcare workers (CCWs) and the effective control and regulation of drug and substance trafficking by law enforcement agencies as well as educational and recreational programmes for reducing juvenile delinquency. Child welfare and social development practitioners working with communities are recommended to initiate programmes that empower financial sustainability for deprived families and communities for them to have improved livelihoods. Further, the study recommends the collaboration of government and development partners in channelling resources towards the enhancement of livelihoods for the impoverished people living in overcrowded urban areas and the prioritisation of the wellbeing of children.