The role of psycho-social teams in deterring juvenile delinquency within secondary schools in Malta

Abstract

Adolescence is a very influential time in an individual’s life, where various elements could influence one’s life course and attitudes towards crime and delinquency. This places schools at an advantage in terms of student outreach and in implementing preventative strategies to deter juvenile delinquency. This qualitative research investigated the role of six professionals, working within government-run secondary school psycho-social teams, in deterring juvenile delinquency. Data was gathered through semi-structured, audio recorded, virtual interviews which were then transcribed and coded by means of thematic analysis. Five main themes, with their respective subthemes, emerged from this analysis, exploring areas such as school outreach, professional intervention and local resources in relation to the deterrence of juvenile delinquency, among others. Association with deviant peers, poverty and coming from a broken home were all commonly observed risk factors which students presented with during psycho-social intervention which might indicate an inclination to engage in delinquent behaviour. This research provided insight on the psycho-social team’s role in crime prevention within schools and what current state-implemented strategies for crime prevention within schools exist. Strong professional relationships between the students and the psychosocial professionals and teachers have been identified as an important factor influencing a juvenile’s attitudes towards criminal engagement. Peer relationships and family relationships have also been identified as holding the same importance. Findings from this research also showed what other crime deterrent and crime preventative resources are needed locally, both at a community level and within schools.