Central Psychosocial Factors In Gang-Related Violence With A Focus On Male Youth Aged 13-25 - Swedish Social Worker's Perspective

Abstract: Youth involvement in gang-related violence is an ever-growing issue apparent in Stockholm,Sweden. This research places importance on the identification of the central psychosocial factors prevalent in these male youths’ lives, as well as the use of them in intervention construction according to Swedish social workers. Psychosocial factors prevalent in youths’lives are a crucial aspect for social workers to take into account when working with youth involved in gang-related violence. This is highlighted by previous research and by the social workers who participated in this research to be factors such as, poor schooling, low socioeconomic status, peer and family relationships as well as mental health. The research is focused on the region of Stockholm, and explores the expertise and knowledge shared by three social workers. The researchers conducted semi-structured interviews with social workers, while studying previous literature, research and theory surrounding youth, criminality and gang-related violence. The importance of identifying and taking these factors into account during intervention construction for this group on an individual level is signified within this study. The discussion summarizes the identified central psychosocial factors, their known use by the social workers during intervention construction and the significance of doing so according to previous research and literature