Social Reintegration of Juvenile Delinquents with Specific Learning Disability (SpLD)

Abstract

This study was conducted to investigate how juvenile delinquents with Specific Learning Disability (SpLD) are reintegrated into society after rehabilitation. Fifteen (15) respondents were categorised into stakeholders of juvenile justice administration and correctional facilities; an NGO (Special Attention Project) and the Special Education Division (Sp.ED) of the Ghana Education Service (GES); inmates and ex-inmates and their parents at correctional facilities (Junior Girls’ Correctional Centre; Senior Correctional Centre for boys), and the Juvenile Justice Court. Descriptive analysis from the sample showed that there is a link between SpLD and juvenile delinquency. Respondents realised the importance of screening juveniles for SpLD in order to identify those who need special educational programmes for effective rehabilitation and reintegration. The study also revealed that respondents are aware that delinquency is often addressed based on socioeconomic factors, broken homes and lack of parental guidance. Yet, the lack of education is usually not considered. This, they believe, will spark their career interests and provide new possibilities for the future. They also believe that with special educational programmes, the cycle of juvenile delinquency will be reduced. The recommendations of the study include staff training to help them work effectively with imprisoned juveniles with learning disabilities and it’s characteristics; involving parents and guardians to assist staff at correctional centres to work effectively with imprisoned juveniles with learning disabilities; special education policies and guidelines should ensure that incarcerated juveniles with learning disabilities receive the services they need and, to which they are entitled ; and development of an extensive reintegration and aftercare (post-reintegration) services.