Author(s) :

Ezeonuegbu Chinyereugo C., Madu Sylvester N., Nwankwo Okechukwu D., Iheatu Mary Jane.

Volume/Issue :

Abstract :

This study examined differential association and perception of the police as correlates of criminal behaviour among youths in Onitsha Metropolis, Anambra State, Nigeria. A total of 400 youths participated in the study, selected through cluster and incidental sampling techniques. The sample consisted of 276 males (61.4%) and 124 females (38.6%), with ages ranging from 18 to 41 years (M = 28.3, SD = 4.84). Data were collected using the: Differential Association Scale, Perception of Police Scale, and the Criminal Behaviour Rating Scale. A correlation research design was adopted, and data were analyzed using Pearson Product-Moment Correlation. Findings revealed that differential association did not significantly correlate with criminal behaviour (r = 0.080, p > 0.05, N = 400). However, perception of the police demonstrated a significant negative correlation with criminal behaviour (r = -0.165, p < 0.05, N = 400). These results offer valuable insights into factors influencing youth involvement in criminal activities. Based on the findings, the study recommends the implementation of community policing strategies to enhance youths’ perceptions of law enforcement. This research contributes to the understanding of criminal behaviour by empirically evaluating the role of police perception among Nigerian youths and questioning the applicability of differential association theory in explaining youth criminal tendencies within the Nigerian context.

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