Thesis (M. Soc. Sc.)--University of Hong Kong, 1988.

Thesis (M.Soc.Sc.)--University of Hong Kong, 1988. / Also available in print.

published_or_final_version / Sociology / Master / Master of Social Sciences

The purpose of this study was to contextually describe and explore the experiences and challenges of the juvenile offenders and pre-trial diversion officers (PTD) involved in the pre-trial diversion programme (PTD) in the Chitungwiza community. In this study, the qualitative research methodology was applied. Research designs used were explorative, descriptive and contextual of nature. Furthermore, the multi-case studies design within the qualitative approach applied. The non-probability purposive and snow-balling sampling methods were used to select the sample from juvenile offenders and PTD officers who have been involved in the PTD programme. Qualitative data was collected using semi-structured interviews with an open-ended interview guide. The eight steps of Tesch (Creswell, 2009:186) were employed to analyse the data. To demostrate the trustworthiness of the research findings, the researcher used Guba`s model (Krefting, 1991:214-222). The findings of the study established that most children commit criminal offences due to socio-economic reasons and that the pre-trial diversion programme is largely effective in the rehabilitation of juvenile offenders. Recommendations were made for the PTD programme to activate socio-economic interventions and improve resources allocation in order to enhance service delivery. / Social Work / M.A. (Social Work)