Vol 13 Issue 3 May 2026-June 2026
Mutonyi Violet, Chanda Chansa Thelma, Neroh H. Mwanapabu, Anock Saishi
Abstract: This study explored the underlying causes of indiscipline among learners in selected secondary schools in Mwinilunga District of North-western Province, Zambia. The study was motivated by the increasing cases of learner misconduct reported in many secondary schools, which have negatively affected academic performance, school management, and the overall teaching and learning environment. The objectives of the study were to (i) identify the underlying causes of indiscipline among learners and (ii) examine the effects of learner indiscipline on teaching and learning processes in selected secondary schools in Mwinilunga District, Zambia. The study employed a descriptive survey research design using both qualitative and quantitative research approaches. The target population comprised secondary school learners, teachers, and head teachers from 5 selected secondary schools in the district. Data were collected using structured questionnaires for learners and interview guides for teachers and head teachers. The findings of the study revealed that the most common forms of indiscipline included absenteeism, truancy, bullying, drug and alcohol abuse, fighting, examination malpractices, lateness, and disrespect towards teachers and school authorities. The study further established that indiscipline among learners was caused by several interrelated factors such as poor parental supervision, peer pressure, poverty, broken families, ineffective school disciplinary policies, negative influence of social media, and inadequate guidance and counselling services in schools. In addition, the findings showed that indiscipline negatively affected learners’ academic achievement, teacher effectiveness, classroom management, and school discipline standards. The study concluded that indiscipline remains a serious challenge in secondary schools and requires collective efforts from schools, parents, communities, and government stakeholders. The study therefore recommended strengthening guidance and counselling services, enhancing parental involvement, promoting moral education, and enforcing consistent disciplinary measures to improve learner behaviour and academic performance in secondary schools.
Keywords: Absenteeism, Academic Performance, Indiscipline, Parental Guidance and Truancy.
Title: Exploring the Underlying Causes of Indiscipline among Learners in Selected Secondary Schools in Mwinilunga District of North-western Province, Zambia
Author: Mutonyi Violet, Chanda Chansa Thelma, Neroh H. Mwanapabu, Anock Saishi
International Journal of Novel Research in Humanity and Social Sciences
ISSN 2394-9694
Vol. 13, Issue 3, May 2026 - June 2026
Page No: 1-12
Novelty Journals
Website: www.noveltyjournals.com
Published Date: 22-May-2026
