Youth in Conflict with the Law. The Case of Grenada
Date
1997-03
Authors
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Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
UNICEF CAO
Abstract
This study examined the relationship between the sociocultural, economic, and parental background of convicted Grenadian youths, and the type of crime committed. It further attempted to analyse the effectiveness of the punishment administered, and to propose reforms both in the prison and in the legal system which should help youths avoid conflict with the law. The main aim of the study was to analyse the social and community issues that influenced youth involvement with crimes, with a view to instituting measures to achieve a reduction in juvenile offenders. Data were obtained from questionnaires administered to 39 youths from the Richmond Hill Prison population and their parents/guardians, as well as from interviews with key personnel within the legal and social services network. It was found that out of the 39 persons interviewed, 14 (35 percent) were in their teens, while 25 (65 percent) were between the ages of 20 to 25years. They were all unmarried and came from large families; 33 (85 percent) came from families with more than four children, and 67 percent came from homes with single mothers or grandparents as the head of the household. Although 87 percent of the respondents were affiliated with some religious institution, religious activities were not significant in their lives. The school dropout rate was significantly high, even though primary level education was the highest level attained for most of the offenders; 18 percent of the youths actually attended secondary school while only seven percent graduated. At the primary level, only 69 percent actually attended primary school to a significant extent. Proposals are presented for prison reform and system reform.
Description
Table of Contents
Keywords
Crimes