Socio-economic factors contributing to juvenile delinquency in Zimbabwe: A social work perspective

Abstract

The study was conducted at a time when a growing concern has emerged about increasing incidents of juvenile delinquency in Zimbabwe. Adopting a social work lens, social process theory, a qualitative research approach and a case study research design, this paper presents findings on some of the socio-economic factors contributing to juvenile delinquency in Zimbabwe. The study targeted caregivers of juvenile delinquents in Highfield, a high-density suburb of Harare, where children received services from Care at the Core of Humanity and key informants who work with children in conflict with the law (juvenile delinquents) at the same organisation. Ten primary participants and two key informants were purposively sampled. Data were collected using in-depth interviews and analysed through thematic analysis. The analysis revealed several socio-economic factors contributing to juvenile delinquency, including peer influence, poverty, an abusive home environment, substance use, supernatural phenomena and the media. Findings also show that children are a product of their environment; thus, a healthy socio-economic environment guards against juvenile delinquency. This research provides a foundation of knowledge and evidence to inform practice and interventions. The researchers recommend that social workers engage in positive parenting skills training with caregivers to protect children from engaging in unlawful behaviour.