Abstract:
A dearth in research exists regarding the onset and escalation of misbehaviour in male, prepubescent, at-risk
children. Insight into which factors contribute to the onset and escalation of such behaviour in this age group,
as well as what could possibly assist in the prevention of misbehaviour, is lacking in criminological literature.
While observational research into male, at-risk children is fraught with ethical concerns, an in-depth
understanding of the perceptions of those responsible for their wellbeing could provide invaluable information
on the topic. This study explored the perceptions of experts and guardians regarding the early onset of
misbehaviour in male, at-risk children in child and youth care centres. The empirical findings indicate that
experts and guardians insist that numerous factors can contribute to both the onset and prevention of
misbehaviour in male, at-risk children in child and youth care centres. The factors that experts and guardians
thought contributed to the prevention of the onset of misbehaviour included: quality relationships with family
members; parenting capacity; positive peer pressure at home or school; and the personal resilience of the
individual. Conversely, some of the factors that experts and guardians considered to have contributed to the
onset of misbehaviour included: lack of time to acclimatise to the child and youth care centre; environmental
inconsistency; a non-resilient personality; negative peer pressure; and weak caregiver attachment. This study
therefore provides an in-depth qualitative understanding of the perceptions of experts and guardians regarding
the early onset of misbehaviour in male, at-risk children in child and youth care centres. Finally,
recommendations pertaining to possible focus areas in secondary crime prevention programmes aimed at
curbing youth misbehaviour in male, at-risk children are considered.
