Family Related Factors Contributing To Juvenile Delinquency in Starehe Sub-County

Abstract

Juvenile delinquency is an antisocial behavior by a child below the age of 18 years who violates laws by involvement in criminal activities. Worldwide a lot of juveniles have been found to engage in delinquency leading them to behavior maladjustment. This study focused on family related factors contributing to juvenile delinquency in public primary schools in Starehe Sub-county, Nairobi County. Three theories; the Ecological System Theory, Social Learning Theory and General Strain Theory were adopted. The design of the study was descriptive. A sample size of four hundred respondents that included three hundred and fifty juveniles and fifty teachers and administrators was obtained by using purposive sampling technique. Questionnaires and interview schedule were used to collect data. Pilot study was administered to ascertain the validity and reliability of the instruments. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics such as mean, standard deviation and percentages and presented by use of frequency tables and bar graphs. Qualitative data was analyzed thematically in accordance with the objectives and presented in verbatim. The study findings revealed that parents’ demographic attributes such as unemployment, low education level and unstable marriages had great influence on juvenile delinquency. It was also established that low attachment to significant others, parental absence, lack of role models, lack of basic needs and neighborhood factors such as peer pressure contribute to juvenile delinquency. Recommended intervention were guidance and counseling, family counseling, peer counseling and recreation park activities., leisure activities spheres, material and financial support to the needy parents, provision of social and emotional support to juveniles and economic empowerment for parents.