Influence of Authoritarian Parenting Style on Forms of Delinquent Behaviour Among Secondary School Students in Butere Sub- County, Kenya

Forms of delinquent behaviour amongst secondary school students continue to increase thus hindering effective learning by students leading to poor academic performance in national examinations. The study sought to determine the influence of Authoritarian parenting on forms of delinquent behaviour among secondary school students in Butere Sub-County. The study was based on the Parenting Models theory. It adopted a correlational research design which allowed the researcher to describe different events, experiences, or behaviours and look for links between them. Study data was collected using a questionnaire and an interview schedule. Population of the study comprised of 2797 form two students, 30 deputy principals and 30 teachers in charge of guidance and counselling in secondary schools in Butere Sub-county. The study sample comprised 338 students selected using simple random sampling, 10 deputy principals and 10 teachers in charge of guidance and counselling. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were used in data analysis. Study findings showed that there was a statistically significant and positive relationship between Authoritarian parenting style and forms of delinquent behaviour among secondary school students in Butere Sub-County. The study recommended that parents consider spending quality time with their children in order to monitor them for any signs of forms of delinquent behaviour, and inculcating in them desirable societal values. Family systems need to be strengthened so as to provide the communal counselling services for both parents and youth and to promote family education related to child upbringing. Keywords: Authoritarian, Parenting Style, Delinquency, Students DOI: 10.7176/JEP/10-19-01 Publication date:July 31st 201