CAUSES OF JUVENILE DELINQUENCY IN BARANGAY BATASAN HILLS QUEZON CITY: AN ASSESSMENT

Abstract

Juvenile delinquency is a persistent and complex social issue that continues to challenge communities. Despite various preventive measures, its prevalence has not only remained but has also intensified and expanded. Delinquency is best understood as a behavioral imbalance influenced by both individual factors and broader social and environmental conditions. This study examines the causes of juvenile delinquency in Barangay Batasan Hills, Quezon City, analyzing its impact based on age, sex, and civil status. Furthermore, it identifies the challenges associated with juvenile delinquency and explores potential solutions to effectively address and mitigate this issue within the community. This study will adopt a Quantitative Correlational Research Design to achieve its primary objective. Purposive sampling will be utilized to select fifty (50) respondents, including twenty (20) Barangay Officials and thirty (30) residents of Barangay Batasan Hills, comprising both male and female participants. A structured questionnaire will be administered to gather accurate and reliable data, ensuring that respondents provide comprehensive and honest answers to support the study’s findings. The study results reveal that the majority of respondents "strongly agree" on the need for digital literacy training and skills development programs. These programs are essential in helping youth navigate social media platforms safely, critically assess online content, protect their privacy and personal information, and effectively respond to cyberbullying incidents. Given the findings that respondents strongly agree that parental rejection may contribute to delinquency, the researchers recommend the following strategies to help reduce the crime rate:  Enhance Digital Literacy and Skills Development – Implement training programs that equip youth with the skills to safely navigate social media, critically assess online content, protect personal information, and effectively handle cyberbullying.  Promote Awareness and Prevention Programs – Organize educational campaigns highlighting the harmful effects of violence, substance abuse, and criminal behavior on individuals, families, and communities.  Encourage Youth Engagement in Community Initiatives – Actively involve young people in designing, implementing, and evaluating community programs to foster responsibility, leadership, and social development.