Causes and Possible Solutions of Disciplinary Problems of Secondary School Students in Masvingo, Zimbabwe 2003-2013

Abstract

The study focused on the causes, trends and possible solutions of disciplinary problems of secondary school students which were recorded in Masvingo Region as from 2003 to 2013. The qualitative paradigm involved a historical research method in order to solicit data. Document analysis was the tool used to collect data. Data was collected using a schedule with headings and subheadings. The population comprised of all the two hundred and twenty-three secondary schools in the region. One hundred and twenty of one hundred and twenty-three schools were purposefully sampled. The findings indicated that the common disciplinary problems were sexual misconduct, drug abuse, absconding lessons, assaults, and theft which recorded the highest average counts through the years under review. Vandalism and murder recorded the lowest counts; however, they were a cause of concern. The predisposing factors and causes were biological factors, social factors, social backgrounds, sports, field trips and other events which are conducive to mischief. The study recommends that an annual magazine be published at regional level in order to enlighten the community on what is going on in schools. Campaigns against disciplinary problems by all stake holders through the media can be used to reduce the levels of misconduct.