The impact of diversion programmes on behaviour modification to divertees in uMhlathuze – RichardsBay

• Main Author: Nkosi, Sithuthukile Sibusisiwe
• Other Authors: Ntombela, N.H.
• Format: Others
• Language: en
• Published: University of Zululand 2013
• Subjects: Diversion programmes > South Africa; Behaviour modification
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10530/1224

Submitted in fulfilment of the requirements of the Degree Master of Social Work in the Faculty of Arts in the Department of Social Work at the University Of Zululand, South Africa, 2012. === The introduction of diversion programmes in South Africa to assist with the tension of a strenuous criminal justice system has assisted beneficiaries of the programme in finding rehabilitation. Although the beliefs of communities and individuals differ as to the intent of the programme, while, others still feel the need for retribution. The impact of diversion programmes thus, cannot be ignored as only 25 per cent of youth having completed the programme will re-offend. There are currently no systems in place in South Africa that could assist in the identification of repeated offenders (needing to be formally classified as recidivists). The degree of repetition in delivering services to the same individuals can, therefore, not be established, thus, leaving a gap in the effectiveness of crime prevention and management strategies. The aim of this study was to establish the impact (effectiveness) of diversion programmes on behaviour modification to divertees, with the purpose of formulating the perceptions of juvenile youth (young offenders) about diversion programmes. The literature explored by the researcher reflects the creation of the Child Justice Court and its mandate, arguments arising from the creation and implementation of juvenile rehabilitation, the purposes of the implementation of diversion, behaviour modification of young offenders in the diversion programme, changes attributing to offender rehabilitation, support for juvenile rehabilitation and recidivism as a hindrance to behaviour change. The findings of the study revealed that from the youth who were referred for diversion, at the end of the programme they had been instilled some aspect of change in their live, attitudes and behaviour. The programme has made them active members in decision-taking roles in their lives and no longer relinquish such powers to their peers, leaving them vulnerable to peer pressure, therefore, making the cycle of offending never ending.