Identity Crisis in The Midst of Urban Modernity: The Dynamics of Juvenile Delinquency, Religious Institutions, and Inequality of Family Supervision

Abstract

This study is driven by the rising phenomenon of juvenile delinquency and the decline of religious knowledge among high school students in Palembang City, reflecting a critical identity crisis within urban modernity. The purpose of this research is to analyze the forms and underlying causes of juvenile delinquency, examine its social impacts, and evaluate the effectiveness of collaborative efforts among government, schools, and families. This study employs a qualitative approach with a phenomenological case study design to explore students’ lived experiences in depth. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, participatory observation, and document analysis, and analyzed using the Miles and Huberman interactive model. The findings indicate that juvenile delinquency manifests in various forms, including student brawls, drug abuse, and promiscuity. These behaviors are primarily influenced by the weak internalization of religious values, toxic peer group dynamics, academic pressure, and insufficient parental supervision. Furthermore, the study reveals that delinquency has significant social consequences, such as increased public insecurity, erosion of social trust, and the decline of communal values like mutual cooperation. Efforts made by stakeholders remain fragmented, reactive, and lack sustainable coordination. The study implies the necessity of a holistic and integrative approach that combines local cultural wisdom with the internalization of religious moral values. It recommends shifting from punitive measures to preventive character-building strategies through strengthened collaboration among families, schools, and government institutions to ensure long-term social stability.