The Impact of Prevailing Cultural Values on Youth Behaviour in Contemporary Society: A Case of Dunda Ward, Bagamoyo District Council, Tanzania

Abstract

Culture has been identified as a powerful tool in shaping human behaviour.  Culture results in behaviour diverging into various contexts among youth. This paper intends to examine the impact of prevailing cultural values on youth behaviour in contemporary society. The study focused on identifying the prevailing cultural values, challenges and negative outcomes of the prevailing cultural values on youth behaviour. The study was conducted in Dunda ward, Bagamoyo district council, in four suburbans, namely Shauri moyo, Madukani, Kaole bondeni and Mitimingi. A mixed approach was employed in data collection. Questionnaires were used for data collection. A total of 140 respondents were interviewed, of whereby 43(31%) were males and 97(69%) were females.  Additionally, in-depth interviews with the key informants were conducted. Quantitative data was analysed, coded, and statistical inference made via chi-square. A content analysis approach was used to analyse qualitative data. The data was coded, and themes were developed. Study findings revealed that the prevailing valuable cultural values included decent dressing, respect, rites of passage, no use of alcohol, good manners, good parenting, unity and peace. Study findings further revealed factors affecting the prevailing cultural values, which include technology and globalisation, newly identified cultural values, unethical behaviour, improper parenting and lack of respect. Adverse outcomes included inappropriate dressing, lack of respect, prostitution, use of drugs and alcohol, pickpocketing, laziness and lack of God's fear. This study calls for institutions such as the family and ministries to develop strategies that will ensure that Tanzanian cultural values are internalised among youth.