Criminal behviour among youth at Muledane Village identification of prevalence, causes and effects

Abstract

Crime is one of the challenges that is facing South Africa as a country. This study focused on the causes, effects and prevalence of youth criminal behaviour at Muledane in the Limpopo Province. The study is relevant since there has never been a study of the ame nature done at this particular village (Muledane). This study focused on the crimes committed mainly by the youth because young people are more involved in criminal activities than adults.

This study employed a quantitative approach. A self-administered questionnaire was given to selected participants. simple random sampling was used to select these participants. The descriptive research design was used. The research population included Tshivenda - peaking youth residing at Muledane village under Thulamela Municipality. Data gathered from participants was analysed using descriptive statistics in which response frequencies and percentages were calculated.

The following ethics were taken into consideration: Avoidance of harm whether physically, mentally or emotionally. The researcher ensured that the ethic of informed consent was observed. This was done by informing the participants of the procedures, advantages and disadvantages of the study, as well as the possible dangers. The researcher did not deceive the participants in any way during the study. The participants privacy/anonymity/confidentiality was not violated in any way. The researcher was competent, and most importantly, made sure that the participants received feedback after the study.