An Assessment of the Influence of Youth Unemployment on Crime Rates in Chavani Village, Limpopo, South Africa

Abstract

Youth unemployment and crime are two major rallying themes across South Africa’s socio-political landscape. This study was conducted due to the concern of a rapid increase of unemployment and crime. Most graduates find themselves in a situation where they are unable to secure employment and this further result into emotional and mental breakdown. The study aims to assess the influence of youth unemployment on crime rates in Chavani village, Limpopo province, South Africa. The study adopted a mixed research methods approach. A purposive sampling and cluster sampling was used to select participants. The researcher used semi-structured interviews and questionnaires to collect data. Qualitative data was analysed using thematic analysis and quantitative data was analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). It is envisaged that findings of this study may be used in the design and implementation of strategies and programmes to reduce youth unemployment and crime in South Africa. Further, the researcher makes some recommendations pertaining to addressing and reducing the high rate of youth unemployment and crime.