An insight into recidivism among male trial awaiting youth offenders and the implications for practice
Journal Article
2006-10
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Social Work/Maatskaplike Werk
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Social Work/Maatskaplike Werk
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University of Cape Town
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Abstract
This article outlines and describes major variables associated with recidivism and rehabilitation of male trial awaiting youth offenders. It is based on a study2 that was undertaken by the author to investigate the problem specifically from the perspective of trial awaiting juvenile recidivists. Findings in the study revealed that financial gain, drug addiction and peer pressure were the major driving forces and motivating factors that influenced the respondents to become repeatedly involved in criminal behaviour. Lack of a stable source of income, denial of re-admission at school, rejection by family and friends and lack of stable home and accommodation were some of the major factors that made re-integration into the community difficult for the respondents during the period after their previous release. Re-integration and after-care services were identified as an area that is grossly neglected in the field of probation and in social work services generally. In view of the key findings of the study, recommendations are outlined with regard to proposed strategies for management and control of recidivism among male trial awaiting youth offenders.
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Reference:
GXUBANE, T. 2006. An insight into recidivism among awaiting-trial youth offenders and the implications for practice. Social Work/Maatskaplike Werk, Vol. 42 (3/4): 307-326.