CRIME AND SOCIAL CONTROL IN NIGERIA: GROWTH OF A QUANDARY.
Item
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Title
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CRIME AND SOCIAL CONTROL IN NIGERIA: GROWTH OF A QUANDARY.
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Identifier
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AAI8515649
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identifier
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8515649
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Creator
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OLI, SAMPSON IKE.
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Contributor
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Dorothy Bracey
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Date
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1985
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Language
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English
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Publisher
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City University of New York.
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Subject
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Sociology, Criminology and Penology
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Abstract
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Age grades are traditional organizations to which all Igbo males belong by virtue of birth, but actual membership is preceded by formal application and an elaborate induction ceremony. Members are arranged according to age to which specific duties and privileges are assigned. Each age grade functions as an arena within which Igbo traditions and customs are expounded and the importance of respect for authority and service to the community are emphasized.;This study is an exploration of the relationship between age grades and crime among the Igbo people of south eastern Nigeria. It was designed to ascertain the extent to which such traditional organizations contribute to positive behavior and crime avoidance.;Five sets of data were used. First, the results of personal interviews of a cross-section of Igbos in three cities, viz. Enugu, Onitsha and Awka. Second, the results of questionnaire study of Igbos living in Owerri, Asaba and Lagos. Third, the results of mailed questionnaires to Igbos living outside Nigeria. Fourth, figures obtained from the police, the prison, the courts and the Federal Office of Statistics. Fifth, fieldwork. A great deal of time was spent living with the natives, participating in their daily lives and asking questions about their activities and their beliefs.;Results of this study indicate that age grades are important organs of social control among the Igbos. The results also indicated that all Igbos, irrespective of religion, membership and residence, regard age grades as important to the Igbo people. The findings of this study further suggest that a high positive correlation exists between maintenance of strong attachment to age grade ideals and aversion to crime.
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Type
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dissertation
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Source
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PQT Legacy CUNY.xlsx
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degree
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Ph.D.
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Program
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Criminal Justice
