, CMY2603 Assignment 1 Semester 1 2026 - DUE March 2026
Question 1
Introduction
Youth misbehaviour in South Africa remains a serious social concern,
with many children and young people displaying aggressive, violent,
criminal, or disruptive behaviour. Such behaviour does not occur in
isolation but is shaped by a range of social, economic, familial, and
environmental risk factors. Understanding these risk factors is essential
in order to design effective prevention and intervention strategies. This
discussion examines five key risk factors associated with youth
misbehaviour in South Africa, explains how each contributes to
problematic behaviour, and provides brief South African examples to
illustrate the link.
Poverty and Socio-Economic Inequality
Poverty is one of the most significant risk factors contributing to youth
misbehaviour in South Africa. Children and youths living in
impoverished conditions often experience unmet basic needs, chronic
stress, and feelings of exclusion from mainstream society. These
circumstances can foster frustration and hopelessness, which may be
expressed through aggressive or criminal behaviour as a means of
survival or protest. In many South African townships and informal
settlements, young people may resort to theft, robbery, or gang
involvement due to limited access to employment and economic
opportunities.
Question 1
Introduction
Youth misbehaviour in South Africa remains a serious social concern,
with many children and young people displaying aggressive, violent,
criminal, or disruptive behaviour. Such behaviour does not occur in
isolation but is shaped by a range of social, economic, familial, and
environmental risk factors. Understanding these risk factors is essential
in order to design effective prevention and intervention strategies. This
discussion examines five key risk factors associated with youth
misbehaviour in South Africa, explains how each contributes to
problematic behaviour, and provides brief South African examples to
illustrate the link.
Poverty and Socio-Economic Inequality
Poverty is one of the most significant risk factors contributing to youth
misbehaviour in South Africa. Children and youths living in
impoverished conditions often experience unmet basic needs, chronic
stress, and feelings of exclusion from mainstream society. These
circumstances can foster frustration and hopelessness, which may be
expressed through aggressive or criminal behaviour as a means of
survival or protest. In many South African townships and informal
settlements, young people may resort to theft, robbery, or gang
involvement due to limited access to employment and economic
opportunities.
