Exploring the lived experiences of former male juvenile delinquents in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana

Abstract

This qualitative study explored the lived experiences of formal male juvenile delinquents in the Ayawaso North Municipality, Greater Accra Region, Ghana. Using a phenomenological approach, eleven former male juvenile delinquents were selected through criterion and purposive sampling techniques. In-depth interviews were conducted and inductive thematic analysis employed. An open coding regime, was used to analyze the qualitative data, generating four primary themes: (1) Youth Vulnerability (2) Abuse, (3) Post-Release Barriers, and (4) Coping Mechanisms. Findings revealed that factors such as stigmatization, substance abuse, peer pressure and poor parental care contributed to their delinquency, while post-release challenges including unemployment, limited educational opportunities, social exclusion and lack of health care were some of the experiences juvenile delinquents encounter after their release. The study recommends that stakeholders, including clergy, Imams, traditional leaders, clinical psychologists, counselors, and social workers, organize sensitization programs to address the devastating effects of stigmatization, social exclusion, and other challenges faced by former male juvenile delinquents.