Parental absence and teen criminal behavior: insights from a youth care centre in Vhembe, South Africa

A large part of how teenagers learn to become law-abiding citizens in their societies comes from interac-tions and communications with their parents and parental figures (socialisation). Through interactions with such figures, they imbibe not only specific societal norms and values, but also develop a sense of purpose and belonging, that helps them navigate the different challenges of their society. Yet, little is known in the Youth studies literature regarding how absence of such figures in children’s life can impact disposition to criminal activities in South Africa. The current study addresses this research gap, drawing from the experiences of teenagers and employees of selected correctional youth and childcare centre in Vhembe district (Limpopo Province of South Africa). Based on a semi-structured interview data of twelve ‘troubled’ teenagers in the centre, four Parents, two social workers and two police officers and two edu-cators, (selected through a non-probability purposive and snowball sampling technique), the study estab-lishes how absence of parents at the early stage of the children’s life particularly, enables disconnection and detachment from their communities. Operating in such contexts the study concludes, teenagers easily become disposed and susceptible to criminality and different social vices in situations of “no parenting.”