Using recreation to curb child delinquency among street children: case study at the cape coast football for hope centre

Abstract

The study was to assess the impact of recreational activities on child delinquency at the Cape Coast Football for Hope Centre. Descriptive survey design and questionnaire was used to collect data from 140 respondents at the Football for Hope Centre. Data collected was analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequency and simple percentages based on research questions. Results revealed that neglect, poverty and abuse were the major causes of streetism in Cape Coast. Also, the major reasons for taking part in recreational activities to children at the Football for Hope Centre were for fun, to connect with other children in society and for enjoyment. Additionally, a statistical significant difference was found between males and females on loss of parent as a cause of streetism, however, no statistical significant difference was found between males and females on neglect, abuse, poverty, inadequate housing and parental divorce as causes of streetism. Recommendations were made for parents and guardians to work hard in order to meet all the social, psychological, educational and financial needs of their wards. Also, schools, communities and NGO’s were encouraged to provide enough playing facilities to enable children play for fun and enjoyment at all times.