Identifying the needs of participants in the Khulisa Diversion Programme.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to identify the needs of participants in the Khulisa Diversion Programme. It evaluated the outcomes and impacts of this programme. The researcher set out to determine and explore whether the programme is meeting the needs of its participants. These children have been referred to it by juvenile courts, schools and parents for committing minor crimes that do not require the criminal justice system. The needs identified were based on Maslow’s theory of hierarchy of needs. This research study uses a qualitative research approach. A questionnaire was administered to the participants and a focus group interview was conducted with the group after the main themes were identified from an analysis of the completed questionnaires. Central themes that emerged related mainly to participants’ unique understanding of their needs as related to the delinquent acts committed. The interview was transcribed and analyzed and the data obtained were documented and recommendations were submitted to Khulisa on how the Diversion Programme could be improved by meeting the needs of its participants. The results indicated that Khulisa has developed an intervention programme that is meeting the needs of these young children, provides them with the opportunity to reflect on their wrong behaviours and aims to help them correct their behaviours in future. In particular, the children who participated in this study seemed to have developed an insight into their behaviors and to have realized the importance of accountability and being responsible for their behavior. iv. The study also highlighted numerous research and methodological difficulties inherent in this study. These problems, and recommendations for future studies, are discussed. The study, while limited, provides initial support for the continued use of the Khulisa Diversion Programme when dealing with juveniles who can be diverted from the criminal justice system.