CMY2603
Assignment 1
Semester 1
Due March 2026
, 1. Risk Factors Associated with Youth Misbehaviour in South Africa
Poverty and Economic Deprivation Chronic poverty limits access to education,
recreation, and basic needs, producing feelings of hopelessness and marginalisation.
Youths in these conditions may see crime, gang involvement, or aggression as viable
means of survival or gaining social status. Violence can become normalized, with force
used to acquire resources or respect. South African example: In Alexandra, Gauteng,
high youth unemployment correlates with cable theft and violent muggings. Young
people often join gangs like the Alexandra 26s, not for ideology, but because gang
activities provide immediate income and a sense of belonging in the absence of formal
employment (Matus & Nkosi, 2024; Statistics South Africa, 2025).
Parental Absence or Ineffective Parenting Children growing up without consistent
supervision, emotional support, or clear boundaries often develop poor conflict-
resolution skills and impulsivity. They become vulnerable to negative peer influence,
increasing the likelihood of aggression or delinquency. South African example: In the
Eastern Cape, parental migration leaves children in the care of grandparents or older
siblings. A study in the Chris Hani District found these youths were over three times
more likely to engage in school violence or stock theft due to unstructured home
environments and lack of non-violent guidance (Sithole, 2024; Department of Social
Development, 2023).
Exposure to Community Violence and Gang Culture Repeated exposure to local
violence desensitises children to aggression. When gangs offer identity, protection, and
status, youth recruitment becomes easier. Violence is then learned as a legitimate way
to resolve conflict. South African example: In Manenberg, Cape Town, gang activity
(e.g., Hard Livings, Manenberg Fancy) exposes children to shootings and territorial
battles. Boys as young as 12 are initiated to gain “respect,” which translates to school
aggression and weapon-carrying (Badenhorst & Pluddemann, 2023).
Substance Abuse Drug use impairs judgement, increases impulsivity, and can induce
paranoia. Adolescents who use substances may commit violent crimes to sustain their
habit, while the trade itself promotes armed conflict. South African example: In Hillbrow,
Assignment 1
Semester 1
Due March 2026
, 1. Risk Factors Associated with Youth Misbehaviour in South Africa
Poverty and Economic Deprivation Chronic poverty limits access to education,
recreation, and basic needs, producing feelings of hopelessness and marginalisation.
Youths in these conditions may see crime, gang involvement, or aggression as viable
means of survival or gaining social status. Violence can become normalized, with force
used to acquire resources or respect. South African example: In Alexandra, Gauteng,
high youth unemployment correlates with cable theft and violent muggings. Young
people often join gangs like the Alexandra 26s, not for ideology, but because gang
activities provide immediate income and a sense of belonging in the absence of formal
employment (Matus & Nkosi, 2024; Statistics South Africa, 2025).
Parental Absence or Ineffective Parenting Children growing up without consistent
supervision, emotional support, or clear boundaries often develop poor conflict-
resolution skills and impulsivity. They become vulnerable to negative peer influence,
increasing the likelihood of aggression or delinquency. South African example: In the
Eastern Cape, parental migration leaves children in the care of grandparents or older
siblings. A study in the Chris Hani District found these youths were over three times
more likely to engage in school violence or stock theft due to unstructured home
environments and lack of non-violent guidance (Sithole, 2024; Department of Social
Development, 2023).
Exposure to Community Violence and Gang Culture Repeated exposure to local
violence desensitises children to aggression. When gangs offer identity, protection, and
status, youth recruitment becomes easier. Violence is then learned as a legitimate way
to resolve conflict. South African example: In Manenberg, Cape Town, gang activity
(e.g., Hard Livings, Manenberg Fancy) exposes children to shootings and territorial
battles. Boys as young as 12 are initiated to gain “respect,” which translates to school
aggression and weapon-carrying (Badenhorst & Pluddemann, 2023).
Substance Abuse Drug use impairs judgement, increases impulsivity, and can induce
paranoia. Adolescents who use substances may commit violent crimes to sustain their
habit, while the trade itself promotes armed conflict. South African example: In Hillbrow,
