A STUDY OF RECIDIVISM BEHAVIOR OF CHILDREN AND YOUTH RELATED TO DRUGS AT SAMUT PRAKAN JUVENILE OBSERVATION AND PROTECTION CENTER

Abstract

Thai children and youth currently exhibit the highest involvement in drug-related offenses and an increased likelihood of recidivism. The study aimed to
1) investigate the patterns, characteristics of recidivism, and relevant factors associated with recidivism among children and youth involved in drug-related offenses at Samut Prakan Juvenile Observation and Protection Center and 2) identify preventive and remedial strategies. The study utilized a qualitative research approach conducted with in-depth interviews. The key informants included six children and youth who had committed offenses, as well as seven administrators and staff members from Samut Prakan Juvenile Observation and Protection Center. The results revealed that the patterns and characteristics of offenses and recidivism were linked to drug abuse in almost every case. This included substance abuse before and after the offenses, leading to recidivism. The critical relevant factors were as follows: (1) negative peer association, (2) unchanged environment, (3) social stigmatization, (4) disengagement from the education system, (5) positive attitude towards drug abuse, (6) economic necessity, and (7) lack of fear of apprehension. Preventive and remedial strategies that aligned with the problems were: (1) increasing the number of personnel to meet the demands of rehabilitation, recovery, and post-release monitoring, (2) allocating adequate and appropriate funding to address the issue, (3) providing comprehensive vocational training and connected pathways to employment, and (4) supporting the presence of social workers or psychologists in educational institutions. Applying research findings necessitates the establishment of a precise and sustainable mechanism for collaboration between juvenile observation and protection centers and relevant social institutions.