Reasons of Being Delinquent in the Community: A Phenomenological Study

Reasons of Being Delinquent in the Community: A Phenomenological Study

Neale G. Lagumbay, Joshua V.  Decafe, Christian Jun A. Peguis, Jehan C. Canillas, Nel Andrew C. Abarco

Criminology Department, Misamis University, Ozamiz City, Misamis Occidental, Philippines

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.47772/IJRISS.2025.905000430

Received: 29 April 2025; Revised: 15 May 2025; Accepted: 17 May 2025; Published: 20 June 2025

ABSTRACT

The study aimed to explored the reasons of being delinquent individuals in the community, using an interview guide, the researchers gathered data from five delinquent individuals from barangay Masabud, Clarin Ozamis City. The study utilized the qualitative research method using Moustakas data analysis approach to obtain meaningful themes. The findings reveal four themes namely: (1)Influence of Peer Pressure and Friendships, (2)  Financial Struggles and Family Responsibility, (3) Lack of Educational and Personal Motivation, (4) Stigmatization and Community Rejection, (5) Influence of Negative Peer Groups and Family Members (6) Desire for Community Acceptance and Personal Redemption and  (7) Aspiration for Change and a Better Future. Peer pressure and friendships have a significant impact on behavior, especially among adolescents who are highly sensitive to group dynamics. The desire to fit in with peers can push individuals toward deviant activities, especially when surrounded by friends who normalize such behaviors. Peer pressure, financial difficulties, lack of motivation, and social rejection are some of the interrelated factors sometimes lead to delinquent behavior in individuals. Delinquency is also influenced by family obligations and financial difficulties, since people may turn to theft or other illegal methods to provide for their families or themselves. They become so desperate as a result of these pressures that they put their short-term survival ahead of the long-term effects. Another major factor contributing to the development of delinquent tendencies is a lack of motivation, both personal and educational.

Keywords:  Influence of Peer Pressure and Friendships, Financial Struggles and Family Responsibility, Lack of Educational and Personal Motivation, Stigmatization and Community Rejection

INTRODUCTION

Delinquency remains a pervasive issue affecting communities worldwide. It encompasses behaviors that deviate from societal norms and laws, often manifesting in criminal acts that disrupt communal harmony and security. In the Philippines, delinquency is a critical concern as it impacts not only individuals but also the well-being and development of the community as a whole.

The goal of researching community-dwelling delinquents is to learn more about the underlying causes of their behavior, provide guidance for effective measures targeted at prevention and treatment, and ultimately improve community safety and well-being by addressing the underlying causes of delinquency. Furthermore, by recognizing patterns in delinquency, systemic problems can be found and measures that aim to lessen crime and advance social justice can be informed. Policymakers, law enforcement organizations, and social service providers can all gain from studying delinquent members of the community since it can help develop targeted interventions and strategies for allocating resources that will address the underlying reasons of delinquency and lower crime rates. Furthermore, by having a better understanding of risk and protective variables linked to delinquency, instructors and youth advocates may better help at-risk kids and put proactive strategies in place. Decreased rates of delinquency also benefit the larger community, improving safety, integration into society, and general wellbeing.

The poor understanding of the complex interaction of individual qualities, social settings, and systemic elements that lead to delinquent conduct constitutes a single gap in the study of delinquent people in the community. Further thorough research is also required to examine the effectiveness of proactive and intervention techniques designed to meet the unique requirements and situations of various communities at risk of delinquency (Petersen, 2023).

In the community, a person who participates in acts that are against the law or social norms and frequently cause disturbance or injury to others around them is referred to as a delinquent person. Adolescents or young adults who engage in antisocial behaviors, such as substance abuse, absenteeism, or criminal activities like theft, vandalism, drug-related felonies, and violent crimes, are typically classified as delinquents. A person may become a community delinquent for a variety of reasons, including social, psychological, and environmental factors. The likelihood of delinquent behavior can be raised by bad economic circumstances, unstable families, and violent exposure (Hesselink, 2023). Delinquency can also arise because of peer pressure and a deficiency of positive role models.

People in the community may engage in physical fights to defend themselves or others, to assert their authority, or to exact revenge for perceived wrongdoings. In addition, people who use physical aggressiveness as a means of expressing oneself or dispute resolution may do so because they are experiencing emotions of anger, frustration, or a deficiency in effective communication skills. Furthermore, the use of physical force to uphold status or assert control may be accepted or even encouraged by social norms within groups or communities (Jost & John, 2020).

Numerous things might lead to physical fights in the community, such as disagreements between people, or resource disputes, feelings of disrespect or provocation, and underlying tensions driven by social or economic inequality. Furthermore, aggressive conduct and increased hostility might result from substance addiction or drunkenness. In certain situations, unresolved irritation, rage, or mental health problems may potentially increase the risk of physical conflicts (Hicks, 2024). Physical conflicts can quickly become out of control, putting both the participants and onlookers at danger for harm or injury. To stop the situation from getting worse or causing more harm, de-escalation techniques or intervention are frequently needed (Goodman, 2020).

Misamis Occidental, specifically Clarin, has experienced its share of delinquent activities, prompting significant attention from local authorities, social workers, and educational institutions. The goal of this study is to better understand why delinquency happens in the community. By exploring the reasons behind this behavior, the study hopes to uncover what causes individuals to act this way. It will look at how people involved in delinquency see their actions and their role in society. By doing so, it aims to provide solutions that can help reduce delinquency and prevent it from affecting the community in the future. This study is important because it can help local leaders and other groups come up with better ways to handle delinquency and make the community a safer and more supportive place for everyone.

This case study, conducted by criminology students of Misamis University, Ozamiz City, is grounded on the premise that understanding delinquent behavior requires a holistic approach. By delving into the lived experiences and motivations of individuals who exhibit delinquent behavior, this research aims to uncover the contributory influences, explore the self-perception of these individuals, and identify their aspirations for change.

METHODS

The study utilized the phenomenological study. Phenomenological research is a qualitative research approach that seeks to understand and describe the universal essence of a phenomenon. This study was conducted in various Barangays within the Municipality of Clarin, Misamis Occidental, selected for its relevance in investigating the factors that lead to bystander involvement in physical confrontations. The participants of this study were five persons who experienced being involved in a physical confrontation or any similar delinquent acts and they were selected through snowball sampling.  Selection criteria for choosing the participants included: (1) involvement in delinquent activities, (2) willingness to share personal narratives, and (3) those who reside in Clarin. The participants of this study were five persons who experienced being involved in a physical confrontation or any similar delinquent acts and they were selected through snowball sampling.  Selection criteria for choosing the participants included: (1) involvement in delinquent activities, (2) willingness to share personal narratives, and (3) those who reside in Clarin. Before the actual interview, the researchers sought permission from the Dean of the College of Criminology to conduct the study, and a request letter was submitted to the barangays where the participants were employed. The potential participants were identified, and they were provided with detailed information about the purpose of the study and the interview process. Informed consent was obtained from each participating barangay official, ensuring their voluntary participation and understanding of the study’s objectives. This study employed Moustakas Phenomenological data analysis. In the way of thinking about phenomenological data, Moustaka’s statement says to follow a systematic procedure that is flinty yet accessible to qualitative research.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Influence of Peer Pressure and Friendships

Prominent theme was the influence of peer pressure and friendships. Several informants revealed that they were initially introduced to criminal behavior by their friends or acquaintances, and later, the behavior was reinforced by social circles that normalized deviance. Because people, especially teenagers, have a strong desire to fit in and be accepted by their social group, peer pressure and friendships can have a negative impact on an individual’s behavior (Laursen & Venna 2021). Friendships are crucial in forming identity and conduct during adolescence. When a group of friends participates in dangerous or abnormal behaviors, such drug use, property damage, or skipping school, someone may feel under pressure to join in order to stay accepted or preserve their standing in the group.

“The biggest influence on me becoming bad was the group of friends I hung out with, especially because they were also involved in bad behavior, like I mentioned in my previous answer. One of the reasons for me was joining bad groups of friends and getting involved in their wrongdoings. My brother would call me gay if I wasn’t tough in his eyes, sir, which is why I joined in their activities.” (P4)

“I was really troubled, sir, and since I already have a family, in one instance, because of hardship, I ended up stealing something that wasn’t mine and sold it just so my family could have something to eat. I’m a parent, sir, and my problem were the expenses at home, which became one of the reasons I did bad things just so my child could have something to eat. The income isn’t clear, sir, and it’s too small to be enough. So, I was forced to join with bad people just to survive.” (P5)

This problem is made worse by family obligations, especially for young people who are expected to take care of their siblings or make financial contributions (Bodin & Björklund, 2022). In certain situations, the person could feel obliged to put the demands of the family above their own learning or growth. They could resort to delinquent behavior as a short cut to meeting their responsibilities if they don’t have the right support or resources. Early life pressure to care for others can also cause hatred and frustration, which can then turn into rebellion or resistance and raise the risk of delinquent behavior.  Access to chances that could lead to a better future is frequently restricted by financial difficulties and family obligations. People may lose access to secure work, extracurricular activities, or education, which would reduce the number of acceptable paths to achievement. Without creative options, people could feel stuck in a cycle of delinquency and poverty, where engaging in illegal activities appears to be their only option for surviving or providing for their loved ones (Cabras et., al 2021).

Lack of Educational and Personal Motivation

A lack of educational and personal motivation can cause delinquency because individuals who feel disengaged from school or lack a sense of purpose may turn to negative behaviors as a way to cope with their frustrations or boredom (Black, 2021). They might not see the benefit of abiding by social norms if they lack the motivation to achieve academic success or personal objectives, and they might turn to delinquent behavior as a form of rebellion or as a means of attracting attention, approval, or excitement. Feelings of isolation brought on by this lack of drive may make children more prone to harmful peer pressure and more willing to act out in ways that give them immediate enjoyment, even if doing so means breaking the law.

“The income is just too little to sustain me, sir, and it’s not consistent nor obvious. Despite my best efforts, it was never sufficient to meet the basics. I felt stuck and helpless, and the never-ending fight for survival drove me to despair. I believed that joining terrible individuals was my only option at that point because it was the only way I could support myself. I didn’t want it, but at the time, I couldn’t think of anything else. Though I regret the course I took in the future, I hope you can see that it was a need rather than a choice. My top focus changed to survival, even if it meant acting in ways I knew were wrong. Life felt so difficult at the time, but I wish there had been another option. All I want now is an opportunity to put things right and discover a better way of living. (P4)”

“They say I’m a bad person, sir, and it hurts more than I can describe. Hearing people talk behind my back makes me feel small and ashamed, as if I’ll never measure up in their eyes. Even when I try to improve, their criticisms continue in my head, making me question myself. It feels like no matter what I do, their opinion won’t change, and that’s a heavy burden to carry. I’m aware of my mistakes, but I don’t think it’s fair that they just notice my flaws. I hope they could see that I’m making an effort to improve and hear my side of the story. Sometimes I want to give up because of their chatter, but I secretly want to disprove them. To them and to myself, I want to demonstrate that I am capable of improving and that my past does not define who I am.” (P4)

Those who lack motivation frequently feel cut off from society and its standards. They could feel left out of chances that others desire to, such further education or steady work, if they lack the drive to pursue their academic or personal objectives. Frustration and hatred brought on by this feeling of isolation may drive individuals to rebel or engage in risky behaviors as a coping mechanism. A cycle of bad decisions may be further reinforced by delinquent behaviors such as substance misuse, theft, or vandalism, which may provide a momentary reprieve from these emotions of failure or inadequacy (Evans, 2024) In addition, those who lack drive are frequently more prone to harmful effects like peer pressure and membership in abnormal social groupings. They might be more prone to follow others into delinquent activities if they lack the inner motivation to make moral decisions or seek a fulfilling future. In addition to raising the risk of criminal activity, this lack of desire or direction makes it more difficult for individuals to escape this road since they lack the self-assurance, know-how, or drive necessary to alter their situation. Therefore, preventing delinquency and promoting long-term personal growth need addressing educational and personal motivation.

Stigmatization and Community Rejection

Delinquency can result from stigmatization and rejection by the community because people who feel unfairly marked, rejected, or judged frequently feel jealous and disconnected. People who are isolated or stereotyped might adopt these unfavorable opinions, which can result in low self-esteem and the conviction that their chances of success or acceptance in society are poor (Crane et., al 2022). They may therefore resort to delinquent behavior as a means of rebelling against the community that has rejected them or as a means of identifying with criminal organizations. The cycle is further strengthened by their community’s lack of acceptance and support, which makes it more difficult for them to leave delinquency and rehabilitate into society (Tucker et., al 2022).

“Their view of me, sir, was that I was bad, so I just continued with it because it felt like they wouldn’t accept me anymore. They gossip about me, sir, saying I’m a bad person, which makes me feel ashamed. They say my actions are not accepted in my community, sir. It’s really frustrating.” (P2)

“Being strong and fearless was the only way to be a real man, according to my brother, who would call me gay if I didn’t act tough enough in his eyes. I started going along with him and his friends in their activities, even if I didn’t enjoy them or wasn’t sure about them, because I wanted his approval and didn’t want to feel rejected or judged. I eventually came to the realization that, rather than being real, I was forcing myself to live up to his expectations. I believed that in order for him to accept me, I had to pretend to be someone I wasn’t and hide my emotions. Although it was difficult, I discovered that being strong does not always involve behaving tough. It means having the courage to be who you are, despite the opinions and understanding of others.” (P4)

Rejection from the community frequently prevents people from obtaining resources and networks of support that would otherwise direct them in the direction of success. For instance, it could be more difficult for people to get social services, work, or education if they are stigmatized because of their background, financial level, or past transgressions. Their sense of rejection is strengthened by this lack of assistance, which also reduces their number of viable options for improving their situation (Block, 2021). In order to satisfy their demands or exact revenge on a society that they believe has abandoned them, they may resort to delinquent behaviors like theft or vandalism. In addition, while delinquent peer groups may provide a sense of acceptance and belonging, stigmatization and rejection can encourage people to associate with them. People are more prone to look for friendship in organizations were engaging in delinquent behavior is accepted when they are feeling cut off from their society. These settings further distance the person from their community by reinforcing bad habits and starting a cycle of criminality. Addressing the underlying causes of stigmatization and offering inclusive support networks that encourage constructive development and reintegration are necessary to end this cycle (Rahman, 2024).

Influence of Negative Peer Groups and Family Members

The influence of negative peer groups and family members can cause delinquency by shaping an individual’s behavior and attitudes toward deviant activities. Due to normalization or pressure to fit in, people may adopt similar behaviors when they are around classmates or family members who commit crimes or dangerous behaviors, such substance misuse, theft, or violence (Arrington, 2022). Particularly for those who feel alone or unsupported elsewhere, negative peer networks can provide a sense of identity and belonging, which makes it simpler to ignore the consequences of delinquent behavior. In the same way, family members who fail to set a good example or foster an unstable home environment may encourage people to turn to crime as a means of escaping or coping with their problems. These factors have the power to keep people stuck in an endless cycle of bad conduct, making it more difficult to seek out healthy alternatives.

“I felt like I had to act a specific way to fit in since my brother would frequently call me gay if I didn’t look tough in his eyes, sir. I felt like I had to prove myself because he would make fun of me or treat me with contempt if I displayed any symptoms of weakness. I attempted to be tough and do things that would make me appear tougher, even if they weren’t the appropriate things to do, in order to avoid him criticizing or making fun of me. This pressure ultimately led me to participate in my friends’ activities, even though I knew they weren’t good. Even though I felt deep down that it wasn’t the best course of action, I went along with whatever was going on because I didn’t want to be perceived as weak or different. I made choices that I now regret because of my brother’s perception of me and my desire to blend in.” (P3)

”The costs at home were one of my main issues as a parent, sir. It felt like there was always more to pay for than I could handle, and it was incredibly difficult to take care of my child and make sure they had everything they needed. At times, this pressure made me feel desperate, and I made poor decisions in order to provide my child with food. The dread of not being able to support them made me do actions I now regret, even though I knew they were wrong. I chose not to complete my education, and it had a significant impact on my life in unexpected ways. In my younger years, I didn’t realize the need of completing my education and didn’t take school seriously. I consequently had fewer possibilities for permanent employment or a bright career, which made things more difficult for me in the future. I struggled to find a way to support myself and eventually my family without a good education, which set me on a horrible path. I also married young, which put me under more strain and responsibility. I wasn’t entirely ready at that age for the difficulties of marriage and parenthood. Because I lacked the proper basis, I ended up engaging in unhealthy behaviors as a coping mechanism for my problems. Although such decisions only made things worse for me and my family, I believed I was doing what I had to do.” (P3)

In the same way, family members can significantly impact a person’s tendency for delinquency (Eisner et., al 2024). Children who grow up in unstable environments or with terrible role models such as substance addiction, marital violence, or neglect may accidentally be more likely to engage in delinquent behavior. A person is more prone to take up similar behaviors to deal with their difficulties if they are raised in a household where bad habits are accepted or where there is no emotional support. A person is more likely to commit delinquent activities as a means of obtaining attention, avoiding difficulties, or claiming control over their life when family problems and a lack of helpful supervision are present. An endless cycle of delinquency can be caused by the influence of unfavorable family members and classmates. People imitate the actions they observe and may become increasingly disconnected from beneficial influences as they spend more time with unfavorable peers. These tendencies may be reinforced by family members who do not step in or who exhibit similar delinquent actions (Wagatsuma & De Vos, 2022). The person may feel stuck in a life of crime or rebellion with little chance of escaping these damaging influences if they don’t have access to alternative support networks or positive role models. It can be very challenging to end the cycle of delinquency when family and peer pressure are connected, particularly if the offender has grown up in a culture that rewards and encourages these behaviors.

Desire for Community Acceptance and Personal Redemption

The desire for community acceptance and personal redemption can sometimes lead to delinquency when individuals feel pressured to prove themselves or regain a sense of belonging. People who have experienced discrimination or have committed wrongdoing in the past may feel a great need to gain respect or recognition, even if it means engaging in harmful actions. Sometimes people engage in delinquent behavior in an effort to fit in with communities or social groupings that place a high value on disobedience or rebellion (Goode, 2022). In addition, if a person lacks positive chances or direction, their attempts to improve themselves might fail, causing them to take risks in an attempt to prove their value or get past their past. This desire for approval and forgiveness can drive people deeper into a cycle of delinquency if they are not given the right help.

“I was having a hard time, sir, and I had to make a difficult decision because I already had a family to support. We were having financial difficulties at one point, and I was at a loss for what else I could do to support them. I ended up stealing something that wasn’t mine and selling it to provide food for my family because I was in a difficult situation. Even though I knew it was the wrong choice, I felt like I had no other choice at the time, so it was an extremely tough decision.” (P2)

“I didn’t want to study, sir, and I also didn’t want to do household tasks. I felt confused and unproductive since I lacked the motivation to accept responsibility for anything. I began searching for other activities to occupy my time rather than concentrating on my schoolwork or helping out around the house. Unfortunately, because I wasn’t using my time or energy productively, those decisions caused me to do awful things in our community. It was simpler for me to develop poor habits since I had no direction.” (P2)

When people want to escape from a difficult background or fix a damaged reputation, personal redemption also contributes to delinquency. The pressure to improve one’s image can be too much for someone who has a history of mistakes, such as poor school performance or past criminal involvement. However, their attempts of forgiveness could go in a negative direction if they are unable to access positive opportunities or networks of support. To prove their value, recover lost status, or make up for feelings of failure, they might turn to delinquent behaviors like joining gangs or committing crimes. These actions frequently show an unsuccessful attempt to change their story in a setting that might already have an unfavorable opinion of them. In addition, seeking both personal forgiveness and social approval can lead to a continuous cycle of delinquency, especially when people are unable to find positive alternatives. They may engage in more harmful behaviors as a result of the pressure to succeed or win acceptance, particularly in peer or community groups that support or encourage such behavior. Their attempts to be accepted or redeemed may fail and drive them farther into criminal activity if they don’t have the right direction, support, or chances for positive participation. Creating welcoming environments and providing supportive ways that enable people reach acceptance and personal development without turning to delinquency are necessary to address these problems.

Aspiration for Change and a Better Future

Delinquency may sometimes end from goals for improvement and change when people lack the legal tools to fulfill their objectives (Yan, 2023). People who want to improve their situation, get out of poverty, or move up the social chain may resort to criminal activity if they believe that traditional methods like work or education are unattainable or inadequate. To make quick money or elevate their position in their community, they could, for instance, commit theft, fraud, or drug trafficking.  Although the desire is great as a whole itself, people may turn to delinquent behavior in an attempt to fulfill their goals if they lack chances, money, or support networks. Their search for a better tomorrow may lead them to make decisions that ultimately block their advancement if they are not properly guided.

“The folks I spent the most time with had the largest impact on my decline into bad behaviour. Looking back, I can see how profoundly their conduct influenced mine, even though at the time I wasn’t completely aware of how much their attitudes and behaviors were influencing me. They frequently participated in undesirable activities, such as skipping class, disobeying the law, or taking part in dangerous pursuits. Their actions became second nature to me, and I began making similar decisions without giving them any thought since I assumed it was a requirement of belonging to that group. Making wise choices was more difficult while I was among these friends because I didn’t want to feel excluded or condemned. I eventually came to regret the course I took because I began to place a higher importance on fitting in than on making wise decisions. They had a big impact, and it took me some time to realize how much of who I was was influenced by the people I was around. I didn’t realize the full effect of their negative behavior on my own life until I separated from them.”(P1)

“Because I was perceived by my friends as “bad,” I began to think that they would no longer welcome me if I didn’t behave in the same manner. I felt as though I was forced to continue acting badly in order to preserve their relationship. Even though it wasn’t the greatest course of action, I felt compelled to conform to their perception of who I was. I started to value their thoughts and perceptions of me greatly, and I was afraid of being rejected or excluded if I made an effort to change. Even though I felt deep down that it wasn’t the correct way to live, I eventually just followed their lead. My desire to make better decisions was overshadowed by my fear of their rejection. I persisted because I thought I would lose everything if I didn’t put up with their inappropriate behavior. In retrospect, I see that I allowed their perception of me to dictate my behavior, which hindered my ability to recognize who I truly was and who I wished to be.” (P1)

When people encounter obstacles that make good possibilities appear impossible to achieve, their goals for change and a better tomorrow might turn into delinquency (Ribes-Inesta & Bandura, 2024). Multiple obstacles like unemployment, a lack of education, or discrimination can disappoint people who have great ambitions to leave poverty, better their living situations, or rise in society. This irritation may cause them to look for other, frequently unlawful, means of achieving their objectives. For instance, some people turn to theft, fraud, or drug trafficking in an attempt to make quick cash or acquire resources they feel are required to better their situation. People may be more prone to harmful influences or dangerous decisions as a result of the pressure to create a better future (Lourens et.,al 2023). People may be tempted to peer groups or networks that promise rapid success through delinquent activity when normal avenues seem slow or unachievable. Even though the activities carried out by these groups are unlawful, they may give members a feeling of community or present a tempting short cut to achieving material or social objectives. Delinquency may appear like a good alternative to someone who wants to change their life because the short-term benefits of such actions may outweigh the long-term effects (Opre et.,al 2021). In addition, without the right direction or assistance, pursuing a brighter future may result in poor decisions. People may turn to criminal activity as a coping mechanism for their limitations if they don’t have access to resources or role models that promote healthy development. For example, a young person who is trying to provide for their family or get away from a bad situation may resort to delinquency as a last choice because they think it is the only way to fulfill their goals. In order to address these problems and guarantee that people may follow their goals without turning to illegal ways, systems that offer mentorship, work, and education must be established. Delinquency can occasionally result from the desire for change and a brighter future, particularly in those who believe they have little possibilities or resources to fulfill those aspirations. People, especially young people, who are motivated to better their situation but believe that the system is unfair or inaccessible, may turn to dangerous or unlawful means of getting around barriers (Bustos, 2022).

CONCLUSION

Delinquent behavior is shaped by a complex mix of socioeconomic struggles, peer influence, emotional challenges, and community dynamics. Economic hardships are a major driver, pushing individuals to illegal activities for basic survival, while limited access to education and employment exacerbates the problem. Peer group influence also plays a significant role, as individuals often engage in delinquency to gain acceptance or belonging within their social circles. Personal struggles, such as neglect and frustration, further contribute to this behavior, highlighting the need for emotional support systems. Additionally, community dynamics, including stigmatization and marginalization, reinforce delinquency by fostering feelings of alienation and limiting opportunities for redemption. Ultimately, addressing delinquency requires a comprehensive approach that tackles economic inequality, strengthens community support, and promotes emotional resilience.

RECOMMENDATIONS

To better support individuals facing socioeconomic challenges, local governments and NGOs should implement programs focused on poverty alleviation, including livelihood training, job creation, and access to scholarships. These initiatives provide legitimate alternatives to delinquent behavior driven by economic hardship. Schools and community organizations should also establish peer mentoring programs and leadership workshops to counteract the influence of negative peer pressure, helping youth build positive relationships. To improve community dynamics, fostering inclusivity and reducing stigma through restorative justice and reintegration activities can support individuals labeled as delinquents, aiding their reform. Additionally, policymakers should reassess preventive measures like curfews, anti-drug campaigns, and community vigilance to ensure they effectively address the roots of delinquency while respecting individual rights. Future research should evaluate the effectiveness of these interventions, explore the psychological impacts of delinquency, and examine the role of digital platforms in shaping youth behavior to design more targeted solutions.

DECLARATIONS

Source of Funding

This study did not receive any grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial, or not–for– profit sectors.

Competing Interests Statement

The authors declare no competing financial, professional, or personal interests.

Consent for publication

The authors declare that they consented to the publication of this study.

Authors’ contributions

All the authors took part in literature review, analysis, and manuscript writing equally

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