Abstract
This study examined the impact of family structure on juvenile delinquency in Damaturu Local Government Area of Yobe State, Nigeria, against the backdrop of rising youth involvement in theft, truancy, drug abuse, and related behaviors. A mixed methods design was adopted, combining quantitative data from 190 valid questionnaires analyzed with SPSS and qualitative insights from interviews with parents, a social worker, a law enforcement officer, and a community leader. Results showed that family structure significantly influences juvenile behavior: children from single parent and polygamous households were more likely to engage in delinquent acts than those from stable nuclear or extended families. Lack of parental supervision, poor communication, and economic hardship were identified as major drivers, while thematic analysis highlighted family instability, weak community control, and peer influence as reinforcing factors. The study concludes that strong parental involvement, emotional support, and consistent supervision reduce delinquency. It recommends that parents strengthen daily monitoring and emotional engagement, community leaders and religious institutions organize awareness and mentorship programs, schools enhance parent teacher collaboration, and local authorities provide socio economic support to vulnerable families to promote family stability and youth development in Damaturu.