Raising children in the midst of gang crime : A minor field study in South Africa

Abstract: The purpose of this field study is; through caregivers' description of their community, to gaina greater understanding of caregivers' experiences of raising children in areas with high gang crime in the Cape Flats, South Africa. This is achieved through ethnography and qualitative interviews with six caregivers. By analytically reviewing empirical data using theories of social constructionism and liberating pedagogy this study wants to emphasise caregivers' experiences as a source of knowledge on how to prevent children from gang involvement and how to support caregivers in areas with high gang crime. The main findings of the study indicate that the family is one of the most significant risk and protective factors. Caregivers affected by poverty, substance abuse and crime were identified as major risk factors for children's gang involvement. While education, faith and support of caregivers, and other caring adults were found to be the major protective factors.Social interventions need to be increased, focusing on caregivers and their shared environment.By supporting and empowering caregivers, children have a greater chance of resisting gang involvement. This can be achieved through parenting programs and support groups for at-risk caregivers.