BROKEN HOMES AND JUVENILE DELINQUENCY IN ADO EKITI, EKITI STATE, NIGERIA

This study is to investigate the relationship between broken homes and juvenile delinquency Ado Ekiti. A quantitative research design was employed to systematically collect and analyze numerical data and a convenient sampling was employed in selecting 200 participants for this study. The findings underscored several key points, beginning with a strong consensus among respondents regarding the detrimental impact of broken homes on juvenile delinquency. The majority of participants agreed that disrupted family structures significantly contribute to the prevalence of delinquent behaviors among adolescents in the community. Furthermore, the study highlighted the pivotal role of parenting styles in shaping adolescent conduct. Authoritative parenting, characterized by high levels of support and reasonable levels of discipline, was perceived as effective in reducing delinquent behaviors among adolescents from broken homes In contrast, neglectful or permissive parenting, marked by a lack of involvement and inconsistent discipline, was associated with higher incidences of delinquency. Also, socio-economic factors emerged as another significant influence on juvenile delinquency within the context of broken homes. The study therefore recommends that, government authorities, in collaboration with NGOs and educational institutions, should actively organize and facilitate comprehensive parenting workshops and counseling services, Community organizations, schools, and youth centers should initiate and sustain diverse programs that promote positive youth engagement among children and their parents.