Abstract
The question of morality related to adolescents now seems to be a thorny issue which gets into those in authority in South Africa. So far, nobody denies that the moral fibre in live of people is deteriorating at all age levels. The adolescents are probably most vulnerable.
Various research projects, obviously have been conducted in relation to morality, however, serious problems are still experienced with regard to the perception of morality by adolescents. Consequently, the aim of this research is to explore and describe how adolescents perceive morality, and to draw guidelines which will be used by educators to assist adolescents in their moral development. This research can therefore contribute in helping the adolescents acquire the knowledge of factors that affect their perception of morality. This will help them not to be a menace to society.
An explorative, descriptive, contextual and qualitative design was followed to conduct this research. A purposive sample was used and the young people had to satisfy specific criteria pertaining to being adolescents. Focus group interviews were conducted. Adolescents between fourteen and eighteen years of age participated. After the interviews had been recorded on audiotape and were transcribed, Tech’s method of data analysis was followed to analyze the data and ensure that trustworthiness is maintained.
The results brought the following themes to light:
• Expression of adolescents’ perception of morality
• Morality versus immorality
• Crime
• Parents identified as neglecting and abusive
• Adolescents expressed concern that their parents’ perception of certain aspects of life is not acceptable.
It is evident that the conduct of adolescents is determined their perceptions of morality. As a result it is hoped that if due acknowledgement is made that educators and parents need to give proper guidance to adolescents about moral principles, harmonious interaction will prevail in both the home and the school.
Prof. C.P.H Myburgh