The Prevalence of Psychological Impacts on the Process, the Arrest and the Incarceration and Criminal Conduct Tendency upon the Adolescent’s Life

The Case Study of Makadara Sub-County, Nairobi County, at Nairobi Boys Hostel, Kenya

Résumé

This study explores the psychological effects of arrest and incarceration on adolescents in Makadara Sub-County, Kenya, specifically at the Nairobi Boys Hostel. It aims to understand how these experiences can disrupt adolescent psychological well-being, and personal development and potentially lead to criminal behaviour. The research fills a gap in the Kenyan context, particularly in Makadara Sub-County. The study, based on Social Learning Theory and Strain Theory, suggests that incarceration experiences contribute to psychological stress, unproductivity and criminal behaviour among adolescents. It suggests that these experiences, often influenced by significant others, can lead to low self-esteem, anger, hostility, denial, and rejection, potentially affecting the overall well-being of the adolescents. The study used qualitative interviews and quantitative surveys to analyze the data highlighting the detrimental effects of juvenile incarceration. The results showed that 20% strongly agreed with positive self-statements, 40% agreed, 30% were undecided, 5% disagreed, and 5% strongly disagreed. Sixty percent of the respondents frequently felt angry about various aspects of their lives. Similar percentages were observed for anger towards the future, hostility, and irritation levels. The study reveals significant psychological distress among incarcerated adolescents, suggesting a cycle of negative experiences within the criminal justice system. The study highlights the need for psychological interventions to combat juvenile delinquency, emphasizing stress, incarceration, unproductivity, and criminal behavior, and suggests policy reforms focusing on rehabilitation and mental health support rather than punitive measures.

Keywords: Adolescents, Psychological Impacts, Arrest, Incarceration, Criminal Conduct/behavior