Troubled Youth

Description

A 16 year old was found burning in an alley in the North Central area of Regina. The police are investigating the crime scene.

Sociological Interpretation

Two teenagers are being investigated for the murder of the 16 year old boy. In a situation like this, many wonder why kids of this age are turning to such violence. Kids need social structure or goals to develop socially. Family life plays a major role for the development of children's social skills, moral behavior and expectations of them. Many youth who do not have the support of a family are desperate in search of support from others. At a young age many kids are drawn to gangs because they are desperate for acceptance to a "family" and they have no where else to go. Many times youth are also drawn into gangs because of peer pressure or social norms of their friends and acquaintances. Gangs replace the family values taught to youth and instead lead to immoral and criminal behavior. The role model of a parent is replaced by the social group of the gang.

If youth are taught proper values at a young age then they might be able to overcome the pressures of joining a gang or leading a life of crime. Kids can be given good influences by staying in school and having good teachers as their role models. Another alternative would an activity such as sports or music. This gives an opportunity for children to accomplish something or set goals. A musical instrument would teach kids how to achieve goals by learning to play music. Team sports are very good because they teach youth how to work as a team. Coaches can also be a positive role model for youth