SOCIOECONOMIC FACTORS OF YOUTH'S INVOLVEMENT ON CRIMINAL ACTIVITIES IN BARANGAY COMMONWEALTH, QUEZON CITY

Abstract

This study explores the influence of socioeconomic conditions on youth involvement in criminal activities in Barangay Commonwealth, Quezon City. It examines how family relationships, education, and economic status impact young people's decision-making, shedding light on the real-life narratives behind the community's crime statistics. The primary objective is to identify the key socioeconomic factors that contribute to youth involvement in criminal behavior. A total of 50 youths and 10 local authorities were selected using the purposive sampling technique. This study employed a descriptive research design to examine the demographic profile of respondents and assess the socioeconomic factors influencing youth involvement in criminal activities in Barangay Commonwealth, Quezon City. A survey questionnaire served as the primary data collection tool. The gathered data were analyzed using weighted arithmetic mean to derive meaningful insights. Based on the results of the study revealed that the socio-demographic profile of the respondents in terms of age are mostly ranging age 15 to 18 years old has a frequency of 35 that equivalent to 58%, and the socio-demographic profile of the respondents in terms of sex are mostly female that has a equivalent to 58%. And the socio-demographic profile of the respondents in terms of civil status are mostly single that has a equivalent to 95%, and the most frequently committed by young people in barangay Commonwealth Quezon City are Curfew Violations with the frequency of 55 and Theft with the frequency of 46, and The most significant indicator of how the respondents assess the socioeconomic factors that involves the youth in Criminal Activities in Barangay. Commonwealth Quezon City in terms of Peer Pressure with the statement of "Trends in my community like smoking vapes or cigarettes and drinking alcohol can affect in daily living" is primarily indicated as strongly agreed. The measures that may be proposed to address the problems encountered in Barangay Commonwealth Quezon City is "Providing individuals with access to therapy or counseling services can help them address underlying issues contributing to their lack of social support or dysfunctional relationships" with a frequency of 55. The Department of Social Welfare conduct an seminar or free webinar regarding criminal activity, how to make the youth avoid theft so that students will be aware of the results of criminal activity.