Date of Conferral
7-22-2025
Degree
Ph.D.
School
Criminal Justice
Advisor
Nancy Blank
Abstract
This research explored challenges of crime and delinquency among Liberian immigrant youth in Southwest Philadelphia, focusing on the social and structural factors that influence their lived experiences. Utilizing qualitative in-depth interviews with 17 juvenile parole/probation officers of Liberian immigrant youths, the purpose of this study was to uncover the underlying reasons that lead Liberian immigrant youth to engage in crime and delinquency, and how they cope with the obstacles they encounter. Employing social disorganization theory, differential association theory, and subcultural theory, the study underscored the impact of neighborhood instability, peer influences, and differing value systems on understanding the youths’ criminal behaviors. The thematic analysis revealed that critical factors such as economic disadvantage, social marginalization, weakened community institutions, dysfunctional family dynamics, ethnic tensions, and delinquent peer networks significantly contribute to crime among these youths. The positive coping strategies identified by the participants include participation in educational and career development programs, utilizing support and empowerment initiatives, fostering personal development and relationships, and engaging in social life and civic involvement. These findings have the potential to inform positive social change by guiding policy and culturally relevant interventions for Liberian immigrant youth on probation/parole in Southwest Philadelphia, aiming to promote positive youth development, reduce crime and delinquency, and ultimately foster a safer and inclusive environment for Liberian youth to thrive.
Recommended Citation
Morris, Jamil J., "Parole/Probation Officers’ Perspective on Understanding Crime Among Liberian Immigrant Youths in Southwest Philadelphia" (2025). Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. 18052.
https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/18052
