This paper seeks to highlight juvenile delinquency in Trinidad and Tobago particularly within the school system which has become at the centre of attention recently. It explores some of the theories that can be used to explain delinquency in the school system. The author places much attention on the programmes that can be used to alleviate if not eliminate juvenile delinquency in schools throughout Trinidad and Tobago. The challenges and recommendations of these programmes were also highlighted in order to maximize its success.
Table of Contents
1. Executive Summary
2. Introduction
3. Synopsis of School System in Trinidad and Tobago
4. Conceptual Framework
5. Theoretical Explanations of Juvenile Delinquency
6. Costs of Juvenile Delinquency
7. Intervention Strategies within the School Setting
8. Challenges
9. Recommendations
10. Conclusion
Research Objectives and Themes
This paper aims to address the rising phenomenon of juvenile delinquency within the school system of Trinidad and Tobago by analyzing theoretical foundations, identifying associated costs, and proposing effective intervention strategies to mitigate and reduce antisocial behavior among students.
- Theoretical analysis of juvenile delinquent behavior
- Evaluation of socioeconomic impacts and costs of delinquency
- Implementation of school-based intervention programs
- Identification of systemic challenges in student support
- Strategic recommendations for multi-agency collaboration
Excerpt from the Book
Intervention Strategies within the School setting
Given the costs and detrimental effects associated with juvenile delinquency, the following are but a few programmes that can be implemented within the school system in a bid to prevent and curb juvenile delinquency.
1. Student Support Groups
These are crucial in any given school setting that is faced with high levels of juvenile delinquency. Students found in breach of the school rules should be enrolled into these groups where they will be able to identify with other students like themselves who share similar life courses.
Retired students of these groups should be encouraged to be role model (or mentors) for the current students who face similar challenges like those once encountered by the mentors. Student support groups should be used as an alternative to detention or even suspension where students are enrolled into the programme as opposed to just sitting in a classroom writing lines or doing homework. Such a programme should be facilitated by a guidance counsellor attached to the Student Support Services of the Ministry of Education but should however not be limited to this ministry. Additional facilitators should come from other ministries such as the Ministry of National Security and the Ministry of Social Development.
Student support groups should focus on critical issues such as: respecting and obeying the school rules and regulations, respecting persons in authority, respecting self and peers, respecting property of self and others, highlighting the consequences of anti-social behaviour and other similar issue.
Summary of Chapters
Executive Summary: Provides an overview of the paper's focus on juvenile delinquency within the school system in Trinidad and Tobago and highlights the need for effective intervention programs.
Introduction: Discusses the rising trend of youth crime and delinquency in Trinidad and Tobago, specifically emphasizing the issues faced by educators within the school environment.
Synopsis of School System in Trinidad and Tobago: Outlines the historical and structural background of the national education system, categorizing schools and defining the scope of the research.
Conceptual Framework: Defines essential legal and social terminology, specifically focusing on the definitions of "juvenile," "offense," and "juvenile delinquent" as applied in the national context.
Theoretical Explanations of Juvenile Delinquency: Explores various criminological theories, including classical and positivist perspectives, to understand the motivations behind delinquent behavior.
Costs of Juvenile Delinquency: Examines the individual (micro) and societal (macro) impacts and financial burdens resulting from juvenile delinquent acts.
Intervention Strategies within the School Setting: Proposes practical programs such as student support groups, parent-teacher conferencing, and after-school initiatives to curb delinquency.
Challenges: Identifies potential obstacles in implementing the proposed intervention strategies, such as resource constraints and parental engagement issues.
Recommendations: Suggests policy-oriented improvements, including the formation of an Inter-Agency Task Force and the adoption of restorative justice models.
Conclusion: Synthesizes the need for proactive identification of at-risk youth and the tailored application of support programs to ensure long-term success.
Keywords
Juvenile Delinquency, Trinidad and Tobago, School System, Student Support Groups, Intervention Strategies, Criminological Theories, Restorative Justice, Youth Crime, Academic Achievement, Remedial Teaching, After-School Programmes, Social Bond, Parent-Teacher Conferencing, At-Risk Assessment, Referral System.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this research paper?
The paper focuses on the growing phenomenon of juvenile delinquency specifically within the school system in Trinidad and Tobago, analyzing how educational institutions can intervene to reduce these behaviors.
What are the central themes discussed in the work?
The work covers theoretical explanations for delinquency, the economic and social costs involved, and practical strategies for school-based interventions and policy reform.
What is the main research objective?
The primary goal is to identify and highlight programs and recommendations that can alleviate or eliminate juvenile delinquency in schools, maximizing the success of students.
Which scientific methods or frameworks are used?
The author utilizes a multidisciplinary approach, drawing upon classical criminological theories (Rational Choice, Routine Activity) and positivist theories (Social Disorganization, Strain Theory, Social Bond) to analyze delinquent behavior.
What topics are covered in the main section of the paper?
The main section details the school system structure, defines key concepts, explores psychological and sociological theories, outlines intervention strategies like restorative justice and remedial teaching, and discusses implementation challenges.
Which keywords best characterize the study?
The study is characterized by terms such as Juvenile Delinquency, Intervention Strategies, School System, Restorative Justice, and Youth Crime.
How does the author propose to involve the community in interventions?
The author suggests using mentors, retired personnel, and volunteers from various ministries and public sectors to facilitate after-school programs and student support initiatives.
What role does the 'Inter-Agency Task Force' play in the recommendations?
It is proposed to foster collaboration between various ministries—such as Social Development, National Security, and Education—to create a comprehensive, proactive strategy for identifying and assisting at-risk youth.
- Citar trabajo
- Danielle Logan (Autor), 2011, Juvenile Delinquency in Schools in Trinidad and Tobago, Múnich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/207850
