KIDS IN THE DARK

As time goes on, the world continues to go through different changes and development.
Industries and sectors are relentless in their pursuit of growth and success. Unfortunately, however, the
changes that the world and humanity are going thru, are not all positive. In recent years, pollution,
climate change, poverty, and more have been on the rise. In addition, another troubling issue is the
spike in the global crime-rate, and juvenile or youth delinquency.

Juvenile delinquency is a crime or misbehavior committed by children and adolescents under

the age of 18. This issue is a social problem across different countries and cultures. Most believe that it
is just a matter of attitude, but professionals have expressed that it is more than just that. Several
studies have proven that delinquency is related to psychological problems. The Women and Children
Protection Centre of the Philippines recorded 11,228 juvenile delinquency cases in 2019, an apparent
increase in numbers compared to the 10,833 cases back in 2017. In addition, the study found that
physical assault, theft, and gang riots are among the top committed crimes by these minors. There are
various reasons why these children commit different crimes, although, Family issues, Outside influences,
and Social Media and Technology are among the primary causes.

Family plays an integral part in developing a child's overall outlook and attitude in life. As
children develop their values, morals, and their sense of self, they are influenced by the behavior that
they observe within the family. For example, a child who grew up watching his parents fight and hurt
each other every day is at a higher risk of developing severe social and emotional problems. It means
that the child might find this kind of abuse normal, or even acceptable and all right. In addition, neglect,
abandonment, and lack of care from parents and other family members will also massively affect a
youth's attitude and perception about life.

Another factor is outside influences. Outside influences can vary from peers, friends, and other
members of society. There is the risk of drug abuse, physical and mental strain, peer pressure, and so
forth. Lastly, there is social media and technology. While these social networking sites and technology as
a whole bring massive convenience and entertainment, it is no doubt that evil people also use these
channels to do inappropriate things. Because the youth are still developing, they are easily persuaded,
and their thoughts and feelings are easily manipulated. Teens are exposed to negativity, toxicity,
inappropriate media and are subjected to unattainable and unrealistic standards. These, all in all,
influence our youth to create crimes, misbehave, and do improper actions.
 We must battle this increase in juvenile crimes while it is still manageable. Let us put the lives
and overall well-being of our youth as a top priority. We must remember that the family and relatives
must be good role models to the children. Let us shine a light over the youth that are lost in the dark.
Moreover, open communication and understanding about what our youth is going through is also a key
to stopping these juvenile crimes. Some studies and experts have also suggested that limiting and
filtering the things that the youth can access in social media might have a good effect. Most importantly,
we must not be afraid to get professional help because it is they who know the best for us.

REFERENCES:

Ivlita, G. (2020). Juvenile Delinquency – Causes, Prevention, and the Ways of Rehabilitation. Retrieved
from: https://www.penalreform.org/blog/juvenile-delinquency-causes-prevention-and-the-ways-of/

Lolita, L. (2019). The Philippines’ little delinquents, committing some of the most brazen crimes.
Retrieved from:https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/cnainsider/philippines-problem-children-
committing-brazen-juvenile-crimes-11563464

Narag, R.E., De Guzman, M. Delinquency and Crime Among Youths in the Philippines: A Test of Legal
Cynicism. Asian Criminology 7, 75–89 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11417-011-9102-2