Israt Jahan

Many types of misdemeanors are happening around us these days, most of which are organized by misguided youths and even teenage children are entering the world of misdeeds. The specter of children involved in criminal activities casts a shadow on our collective conscience, demanding a comprehensive understanding and concerted efforts for resolution. Unraveling the layers of this complex issue reveals a tapestry woven with socio-economic threads, family dynamics, peer influences, and systemic failures.

Thousands of questions arise about why these young people are going astray, and how to solve this problem. However, the solution to these questions often fails. The stark reality of economic inequality often pushes children towards crime. Faced with limited access to education and employment opportunities, some view criminal activities as an expedient means to escape poverty and gain financial autonomy. Tackling this aspect requires broader societal efforts to bridge economic gaps and provide equal opportunities.

A child's greatest learning environment is the family. But many times that family becomes the reason for the child to go astray. The family serves as the cornerstone of a child's upbringing. When a child grows up and steps into adolescence, his surroundings seem colorful. And then he got involved with the crime world. Adolescence is a period marked by a heightened susceptibility to peer influence. In the absence of positive role models, children may succumb to the pressures of delinquent peer groups, leading them down a path of criminal behavior. Understanding the social dynamics shaping these relationships is crucial for effective intervention.

Education acts as a gateway to a brighter future, yet systemic failures in providing quality education can push children away. Inadequate schooling environments and a lack of engagement may drive some towards criminal activities, especially when they perceive limited prospects within the formal education system.

It is a matter of great concern what the future holds for youth and children who step into the world of crime. The question remains as to how much we have an idea of how terrible this crime can make their lives. Engaging in criminal activities during formative years can have profound and lasting effects on a child's development. Emotional and cognitive growth may be stunted, hindering the acquisition of crucial life skills. This, in turn, limits prospects for education and employment, perpetuating a cycle of disadvantage.

A child's future depends largely on the environment in which he grows up. Communities play a pivotal role in shaping the environment in which children grow. Establishing community-based initiatives, including mentorship programs, sports, and arts, provides positive outlets for children, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose. A positive and supportive learning environment in the education system can protect a child and youth from the cycle of crime. For children already ensnared by criminal activities, rehabilitation programs should extend beyond punitive measures. Counseling and vocational training are integral components, enabling the reintegration of these children into society as productive and responsible individuals.

A beautiful mind can create a beautiful life. And the practice of this beautiful mind should start from childhood. And family and neighborhood people will be an integral part of this practice. Some beautiful-minded people are needed to build a beautiful society. The involvement of children and youth in crime is a delicate issue that demands a nuanced response. By finding the root causes of this cycle and uncovering its solutions, it is possible to prevent the influence of negativity in one's life. Investing in preventive measures, early intervention, and rehabilitation programs is not only a mandatory process but also a strategic effort to break the cycle and give every child a chance at a bright, crime-free future.

The writer is a Student of the Department of English Chittagong College