Hobby education helps prevent teenage crime
The report highlights that extracurricular education can effectively prevent teenage crimes by providing a supportive environment for youth.
According to the latest Human Development Report from Estonia, teenage crimes frequently occur immediately after school hours. The report emphasizes that access to extracurricular education can significantly reduce these incidents among youths. Unfortunately, only a quarter of young people aged 16-19 participate in such activities, indicating a gap in support that could be crucial for preventing criminal behavior.
The data suggests that youth who feel secure and connected within their school environments are less likely to engage in criminal behavior. Specifically, the report states that young people with strong ties to their schools are approximately one-third less likely to commit offenses compared to those with weaker connections. This finding highlights the importance of fostering a positive school climate that supports students' emotional and social needs.
Moreover, the report notes that learning experiences outside of traditional classroom settings can ignite a lasting interest in young people. Non-formal education environments, like museums and hobby groups, serve as critical venues for developing sustained motivation and engagement among youth. This showcases the need for broader access to such opportunities to offer an alternative to negative behaviors, especially in the formative years following school hours.