THE TALE OF PROFESSIONAL PARENTING: CAREGIVER EXPERIENCES IN DEALING WITH DELINQUENT CHILDREN IN ZIMBABWE'S RESIDENTIAL CARE CENTRES

The objective of this study was to investigate the challenges faced by caregivers in handling delinquent behaviours exhibited by children residing in care centres. The study employed a qualitative research methodology in conjunction with a phenomenological research design. Data were gathered from a sample of 10 caregivers and 3 key informants who were purposefully chosen for the study. The data were analysed through the application of interpretive phenomenological analysis (IPA), a qualitative research method that involved the identification and development of themes derived from the participants' own perspectives. The obstacles encountered by caregivers encompassed a multitude of factors, including the burden of their workload, apprehension regarding potential legal conflicts, limited access to comprehensive information about the child's origin, and the complexities inherent in carer- child interactions. The report proposes that legislative and regulatory evaluations be conducted in order to reduce the period of placement. Additionally, it suggests the implementation of stronger programmes aimed at reducing instances of family separation, as well as the development of an integrated model to treat delinquent behaviour effectively.