Youth Unemployment and Criminality: A Study of Burglary in Otuoke Community, Bayelsa State

Background: Youth unemployment has become a pervasive issue in Nigeria, particularly in rural communities like Otuoke, where limited economic opportunities and social pressures contribute to increased rates of criminality, including burglary. This study investigates the relationship between youth unemployment and burglary in Otuoke community, Bayelsa State, aiming to shed light on the socio-economic factors driving this correlation. Aim: This study investigates the relationship between youth unemployment and burglary in Otuoke community, Bayelsa State, using Robert K. Merton's strain theory. Method: A sample of 370 participants was selected through purposive sampling, and data was collected via self-designed questionnaires. Frequency tables and simple percentage analysis revealed a significant link between youth unemployment and burglary. Result: The findings suggest that Nigeria's emphasis on goals without providing adequate means leads to deviant behavior. There was a significant correlation between youth unemployment and burglary rates in the Otuoke community, 75% of respondents reported unemployment as a primary motivator for engaging in burglary, lack of job opportunities, poverty, and inadequate education were identified as major contributing factors, 60% of respondents had no formal education or vocational training, social pressures, peer influence, and family financial burdens also played a role in criminal involvement, majority of burglars (80%) were aged 18-25, emphasizing the vulnerability of young people. Conclusion: Youth unemployment is a societal issue threatening social-economic stability.