Socialisation of a Boy Child within a Family as a Contributory Factor for Risk-taking Behaviour at Schools

Abstract

The family is influential in children’s development and socialisation. Through the lens of social learning, this article explores how the socialisation of boys within families influences or prevents risk-taking behaviours at school. Employing a qualitative research approach, data were generated through semi-structured face-to-face interviews with open-ended questions contained in an interview guide. These were subsequently analysed thematically. Through purposive sampling, three themes emerged from participants’ narratives. Themes reflect risk factors such as family structure on participants’ discipline and emotional regulation, the value of nurturing family relationships, and the family role in positive socialisation. Significantly, the role of fathers and father absence resonated across the three themes. Recommendations for social work practice centre on parenting programmes specially focused on positive parenting for both parents—especially fathers—and closer collaboration with school social workers.