This study investigated the relationship between family dynamics variables and delinquent careers among secondary school students in Uyo Local Government Area. This study employed a correlational research design to investigate the relationship between family dynamics and delinquent career among secondary school students. The population of the study consisted of 15843 Students in all the public secondary schools in Uyo Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State as at 2023/2024 academic session. The study sample comprised 130 Students determined using simple random sampling technique. A Researcher-made instruments titled: Family Communication Pattern, Conflict Resolution Styles, Family Flexibility and Delinquent Career Questionnaire (FCPCRSFFDCQ) was used for data collection. The instrument was subjected to face validity by two lecturers. The reliability coefficient of the instrument was .78, determined using Cronbach alpha reliability statistics. The data obtained from the instrument was analysed using Pearson product moment correlation (PPMC) statistic. The result showed that there is a significant relationship between communication patterns in the family, conflict resolution styles in the family, parenting styles and delinquent careers among secondary school students. Recommendations were made among others that Parents should be encouraged to provide a stable and supportive family environment, characterized by warmth, love, and consistent discipline, to help prevent delinquent behavior among secondary school students.
KeyWords: Family, Family Dynamics, Delinquent Career, Secondary School Students
Written by:
Edem, Usenobong Donald
Department of Guidance and Counseling
University of Uyo, Uyo, Nigeria
usenobongedem@uniuyo.edu.ng