Views of social service providers on the effect of substance misuse on juvenile offenders

[摘要] ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Over the past twenty years, research has shown that substance misuse in juvenile offenders has consistently increased over time. Research has also shown that an alarming 80% of youths who come into conflict with the law, are either using substances or their substance misuse behaviour has led to them breaking the law. This research study explored the views of social service providers on the effect of substance misuse on juvenile offenders.The study utilized Bronfenbrenner's Ecological Perspective as a theoretical underpinning. This theoretical perspective identifies four themes: the microsystem, mesosystem, macrosystem and exosystem. Through the data collected and analysed, various sub-themes and categories emerged. This study used a qualitative research approach, with some quantitative elements through the compilation of the identifying details. An exploratory and descriptive research design was applied. The data that was collected was done through semi-structured interviews with a sample of 20 participants. These participants were social service providers to youth in conflict with the law or youth misusing substances.The goal of the research study was to gain an understanding of the views of social service providers on the effect of substance misuse on juvenile offenders, within the context of South Africa. This was achieved by exploring the legislative frameworks and protocols pertaining to substance misuse through a theoretical discussion. The researcher explored the various factors that influence substance misuse through relevant literature.By empirically investigating the topic in research, the views of interested social service providers on the effect of substance misuse on juvenile offenders was explored. This was achieved by exploring and analysing the interested social service provider's views, experiences and knowledge on the specified field- which consequently related to the literature reviewed. Through the data collected, various themes, sub-themes and categories emerged. Through the literature reviewed and empirical investigation, the researcher was able to provide relevant conclusions and recommendations. It was Stellenbosch University https://scholar.sun.ac.zaiv | P a g ehighlighted that the social supportive services and resources available to youth in conflict with the law who are misusing substances are limited or non-existent. Through the lack of services available, various gaps, needs, support and barriers were identified.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University