Neutralization Techniques Among Indonesian Student Mass Fighters

A Qualitative Study

Bibliographic Data

ID21513620
AuthorsJesika Juliana (0000-0003-3576-4679, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia), Azmawaty Mohamad Nor (0000-0003-4760-8825, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia), Fonny Dameaty Hutagalung (0000-0001-9097-720X, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, corresponding author)
Year2025
Pages306624X251356506-306624X251356506
Publication date2025-08-11
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueInternational Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0306-624X • E-ISSN: 1552-6933
PublisherSAGE Publications (PUBLISHER • US)
DOI10.1177/0306624x251356506
PMID40787823
OpenAlexW4413100090
LanguageEN
References cited47

Student mass fighting is prevalent in many cities in Indonesia, resulting in severe consequences such as physical injury and death. However, research on the neutralization techniques repeat offenders use is limited, though this information is vital for effective prevention. This study explores the neutralization techniques among student mass fighters in Indonesia. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with six student mass fighters across three correctional institutions using qualitative methods. The analysis revealed four neutralization techniques: denial of responsibility, denial of injury, denial of the victim, and appeal to higher loyalties. Participants rationalized that fighting was important for maintaining gang reputation and peer acceptance, and they often portrayed their involvement as a typical response. The study suggests implementing conflict resolution training and identifying at-risk students as part of a broader strategy to reduce student mass fighting and improve rehabilitation efforts

Appeal · Criminology · Denial · Medical education · Political science · Qualitative research · Reputation · Sociology · Crime Patterns and Interventions · Criminal Justice and Corrections Analysis · Law · Medicine · Psychology · Psychopathy, Forensic Psychiatry, Sexual Offending