THE IMPACT OF FAMILY STRUCTURE ON INCIDENCE OF JUVENILE DELINQUENCY: EVIDENCE FROM BORSTAL TRAINING INSTITUTION IN GANMO, ILORIN KWARA STATE NIGERIA

Abstract

The study investigated the Impact of Family Structure on Incidence of juvenile delinquency the influence of family structure on the incidence of juvenile delinquency in Borstal Training Institution in Ganmo, Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria. Juvenile delinquency remains a pressing social issue, and understanding the factors contributing to it is crucial for effective intervention and prevention. The study made use of Social Cognitive Theory by Miller and Dollard (1941) to analyze how various family structures-such as nuclear families, single-parent families, and extended families affect the likelihood of delinquent behavior among juveniles. The study adopted a mixed-methods research designs comprising of questionnaires, interviews, and official records from the institution. 100 respondents were sampled for the study. The findings reveal a significant correlation between family structure and juvenile delinquency, with single-parent and disrupted families showing higher rates of delinquent behavior compared to stable nuclear families. The study underscores the importance of family stability and parental involvement in mitigating juvenile delinquency.  The study recommends that policymakers, social workers, and educators should develop targeted interventions that support at-risk families and prevent juvenile delinquency. This research contributes to the broader understanding of the social dynamics influencing juvenile behavior and offers practical solutions for fostering a more supportive family environment