HIGH SCHOOL LEARNERSâ€™ EXPERIENCES OF GANGSTERISM IN HANOVER PARK

Mufaro Magidi; Rinie Schenk; Charlene Erasmus

doi:10.25159/2415-5829/1351

Authors

Mufaro Magidi Department of Social Work University of the Western Cape
Rinie Schenk Department of Social Work University of the Western Cape
Charlene Erasmus Child and Family studies Unit Department of Social Work University of the Western Cape

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25159/2415-5829/1351

Keywords:

gangsterism, high school learners, Hanover Park, Western Cape, bullying, gangsters

Abstract

The culture of gang violence has become deeply entrenched in South Africa. The present study explored the experiences of non-gang school-going adolescents regarding gangs and gangsterism in Hanover Park in the Western Cape. A qualitative exploratory approach was used. Data collection instruments were focus group discussions supported by qualitative semi-structured interviews involving 18 adolescents between the ages of 16 and 18 from two secondary schools in Hanover Park, Cape Town. The data were thematically analysed. The results have shown that the presence of gangs affects the learnersâ€™ school attendance, restricts their mobility, increases bullying at school and seriously disrupts family and community life.