Socio-economic consequences on criminal behavior among youths in urban areas the case of Embakasi central, Nairobi county, Kenya

Abstract

Background The relationship between crime and socioeconomic factors differs across regions and countries. Some research has focused solely on economic factors of crime, without considering deterrent variables. This study aimed to investigate the socioeconomic influences on criminal behavior among urban youth, specifically in Embakasi Central, Nairobi County. Methodology The study had four objectives: to examine the impact of income level on youth criminal behavior, to explore how family structure affects youth involvement in crime and delinquency, to determine the influence of employment status on crime involvement and to examine the impact of education level on youth criminal behavior. Two theories guided this study: Strain Theory of Crime and Behavioral Criminal Theory. The study population consisted of residents of Embakasi Central, including youth, women, and men, totaling approximately 350,000 people. A sample of 214 respondents was selected (a response rate of 71.57%) against the planned sample size of 300, determined using a mathematical approach developed by Nassiuma in 2000. Data were collected through structured questionnaires from participants aged 18 years and above. Additionally, qualitative data were gathered from area administrators, such as chiefs and assistant chiefs, through in-depth interviews (IDIs). A pilot study was carried out with 10% of the respondents from the neighboring Embakasi East area to pretest the questionnaire. For the subsequent descriptive analysis, the researcher organized, cleaned, coded, and processed the quantitative data using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23. The findings were presented in tables, frequencies, and percentages. Inferential statistical analysis was conducted, including Pearson correlation, to examine the relationship between youth involvement in crime (dependent variable) and the independent variables. The results showed significant correlations: income level (r=0.912, p<0.05), family structure (r=0.874, p<0.05), work status (r=0.785, p<0.05), and educational level (r=0.719, p<0.05). Findings The analysis demonstrated that the examined variables had a significant impact on youth involvement in criminal activities, though to varying degrees. Regression analysis indicated that fluctuations in youth criminal behavior in Embakasi Central were linked to changes in income level, family structure, work status, and educational level. Qualitative data were analyzed using a thematic approach, incorporating narratives aligned with the study objectives. The findings were presented in a structured manner to support the formulation of relevant recommendations. Conclusion The study recommends that the government, in partnership with employment agencies, work towards creating employment opportunities for youths. This would keep them engaged and reduce their likelihood of involvement in criminal behavior. The employers should consider offering decent wages or salaries to youths in both formal and informal jobs, which would increase their income levels and further decrease their chances of engaging in criminal activities.