Factors influencing anti-social behaviours among learners in Khami District primary schools

Abstract

Anti-social behaviour (ASB) among learners is a universal problem with negative consequences in the teaching and learning process. This study set to investigate the factors that contribute to anti-social behaviour among primary school learners in Zimbabwe’s Khami district. A qualitative case study was used. Participants were drawn from Khami District primary schools and these included six (6) teachers, six (6) parents, and fourteen (14) learners. In-depth interview schedules and semi-structured questionnaires were used to obtain data from the participants. The study established that ASB is a result of the interaction between biological susceptibilities and environmental stressors. It also emerged from the study that learners who exhibit ASB tend to develop undesirable personalities if there is absence of behaviour modification strategies for rehabilitation. Based on the findings as well as literature review, the study recommended that parents also check for ASB among the school-going children rather than leave this to the schools. Schools should offer guidance and counselling services where learners with ASB are equipped with skills to manage this vice.