IN A MULTICULTURAL SOCIETY, ARE YOUTHS NATURALLY AGGRESSIVE AND VIOLENT?

STAKEHOLDERS’ ASSESSMENT OF VIOLENT BEHAVIOURAL CAUSATIONS AMONG YOUTHS IN ESE-ODO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF ONDO STATE

Abstract

This study explored the causative factors of violent behaviours among youths in Ese Odo Local Government Area. A mixed-methods research design (QUAL+ quan) was employed. The study population comprised youths aged 18–35 years, parents, educators, and community leaders. A total of 300 youths were selected using stratified random sampling, while 95 parents, 45 teachers, and 60 community leaders—including religious leaders, local government officials, and activists—were chosen through purposive sampling. Data were collected using an adapted and validated Youth Violent Behaviour Causation Scale (r = .93) and an In-depth Interview Guide (IGI). Descriptive statistics (frequency counts, percentages, means, and standard deviations) were used for quantitative analysis, while thematic analysis was employed for the qualitative data. Key findings revealed multiple socio-cultural, economic, and institutional factors contributing to youth violence. The study concluded that a collaborative, multi-stakeholder approach is essential to mitigate youth violent behaviours. It recommended strengthened family structures, inclusive education, community sensitisation, and targeted policy interventions to address the root causes effectively.