Violent behavior, substance use and crime among the youth in Katanga slum

Abstract

This study was aimed at finding out the relationship between violent behaviour, substance use and crime among youths in Katanga slum in Kawempe division, Kampala district. The study targeted 100 youths who were residents of Katanga slum between 14-25 years both male and female. The study objectives examined the relationship between violent behaviour and substance use in Katanga slum, assessed the relationship between violent behaviour and crime in Katanga slum and find out the relationship between substance use and crime among youths in Katanga slum. Questionnaires were designed and administered to 100 youths in Katanga slum using convenient sampling technique to measure for violent behaviour, substance use and crime where. The hypotheses were tested using Pearson correlation coefficient and data entry and analysis using the statistical package for social scientist (SPSS). The results established a significant relationship between violent behaviour and substance use among youths in Katanga slum. Findings also showed that there is a significant relationship between violent behaviour and crime among youth in Katanga slum. Findings further revealed that there is a significant relationship between substance use and crime among youth in Katanga slum. The research concludes that government, and local agencies should set clear guidelines, standards and expectations that would minimize risks of violent behaviour, substance use and crime especially in slum areas because most youth get involved in these acts in such productive age yet they would be useful for development.