PSYCHOLOGICAL FACTORS INFLUENCING CRIMINAL BEHAVIOR AMONG YOUTH IN MAIDUGURI METROPOLITAN COUNCIL, BORNO STATE
Abstract
From a global perspective, this study examines the psychological factors
influencing criminal behavior among youth aged 16–24 in Maiduguri Metropolitan
Council (MMC), Borno State, Nigeria, a region impacted by the Boko Haram
insurgency. Despite interventions targeting structural issues, youth crime persists,
driven by psychological factors such as trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder
(PTSD), depression, and substance abuse. Using a quantitative approach, data were
collected from 100 youth in Gwange, Mairi, London Ciki, and Kakurti via
structured questionnaires. Guided by Trauma Theory, General Strain Theory, and
Social Learning Theory, the study found that 68% of respondents reported frequent
anxiety, 60% experienced PTSD symptoms, and 65% linked insurgency-related
trauma to criminal behavior (p < .01). Limited mental health services (78%
reported no access) exacerbate deviance. The study recommends trauma-informed
counseling and vocational training to reduce crime. It contributes evidence-based
insights for policymakers to enhance youth resilience in post-conflict MMC.
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