Security in the local community in the context of manifestations of the demoralization of minors

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to attempt to show the importance of interpersonal relations and selected examples of social pathologies in local communities in the context of the determinants of manifestations of juvenile demoralization. A thesis has been put forward about the impact of the local environment on the demoralization of juvenile pathological features, and positively on the disposition of minors as a result of a sense of security through experiencing positive relationships in the immediate environment. It has been verified based on the results of empirical research carried out with a survey method, using the technique of surveying pupils in primary and junior high schools in Białystok and Rzeszów, based on an electronic questionnaire. From an analyses of the survey results, it can be concluded that the pathological behaviours in their local environment experienced by minors motivated them to demoralizing behaviour. The factors that had a significant impact on illegal behaviour by minors were the negative features of the immediate area, such as the occurrence of crime and other punishable acts, including fighting, drugs, violence as well as vacant and dense buildings. Demoralizing behaviour was also stimulated by the possibility of meeting youth gangs in vacant buildings and looking for hiding places in dense buildings. On the other hand, the positive features of the local community, in the opinions of minors, defined as good neighbourly relations, respondent’s recognition, cooperation, trust, life and a willingness to provide assistance did not incline them to criminal acts. Diagnosing the motivation of the young generation to behave both positively and negatively can contribute to the development of prevention and prophylaxis programs intended to improve the level of safety