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Article
Publication date: 18 November 2024

Sarah Tonks and Zoe Stephenson

The majority of gang research has focussed primarily on American samples, with the rehabilitative field being no exception. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to expand the…

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Abstract

Purpose

The majority of gang research has focussed primarily on American samples, with the rehabilitative field being no exception. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to expand the knowledge base regarding the psychology of gang membership by exploring the narrative accounts of convicted street gang members within an English and Welsh prison sample.

Design/methodology/approach

Using semi-structured interviews with nine convicted male prisoners, data were analysed, systematically coded and themes generated in line with the principles of thematic analysis.

Findings

Three major themes emerged which depicted how members viewed gang membership. The first theme was around what being a gang member meant to them and the organisation within the gang (e.g. hierarchy and criminal activities). The second theme reflected their motivations for joining a gang with reference to their identity and survival. Lastly, within the third theme, participants spoke about what had motivated them to disengage from the gang, difficulties they faced because of disengagement, and what they felt had helped them in the process of disengagement.

Practical implications

The study emphasises the importance of avoiding labels and promoting choice as to how individuals refer to themselves, which can help remove stigma and strengthen professional relationships as part of their risk management planning. Policymakers, practitioners and programme developers are advised to reflect on the word “gang” and how this may influence perception of risk and contribute to bias in judgement. The study also provides insight into individuals experiences with rehabilitation initiatives and the logistical challenges of being open with their peer group. Also supports ideas on considering how to create opportunities to ensure those who wish to exit gangs can do so in a safe, legitimate and durable way. Findings could assist in the design of early preventative measures for those identified as being at risk of joining a gang. Offering training to professionals in the community on how to identify and communicate with those vulnerable to joining a gang may support this process.

Originality/value

Findings add to the limited yet growing evidence base in understanding the psychology of gang membership and helping to support the work undertaken with this cohort.

Details

The Journal of Forensic Practice, vol. 27 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2050-8794

Keywords

Available. Open Access. Open Access
Article
Publication date: 10 January 2025

Sarah A. Courchesne, Dave Stynen, Judith H. Semeijn and Marjolein C.J. Caniëls

Currently, lifelong learning and sustainable employability are increasingly fostered in the context of interorganizational networks, which provide workers with access to network…

153

Abstract

Purpose

Currently, lifelong learning and sustainable employability are increasingly fostered in the context of interorganizational networks, which provide workers with access to network activities (e.g., training, career counseling). This study aims to investigate the relationship between workers’ participation in network activities and their sustainable employability by considering workers’ experiences with the network activities. This study also examines the role of relational factors, including network trust and leader-member exchange, as conditions that may influence the link between workers’ participation in network activities and their sustainable employability (i.e. workability, perceived employability and vitality).

Design/methodology/approach

This study has a mixed methods design. A quantitative approach (cross-sectional, questionnaire) was used to establish associations between variables. This approach was supplemented with qualitative data (semistructured interviews) to explore whether Self-Determination Theory can provide an explanation for the associations and the role of (relational) factors that workers perceive as hindering or facilitating in that process.

Findings

The results suggest that participating in network activities have promising benefits for both workers and organizations by facilitating the work ability and perceived employability components of sustainable employability. For these relationships, workers’ satisfaction of their need for competency and relatedness serves as explanatory mechanisms. Moreover, the actualization of benefits of network activities is influenced by relational factors both within the network (i.e. trust) and within organizations (i.e. leader-member exchange).

Originality/value

This study investigates workers’ experiences with network activities, regarding fostering workers’ sustainable employability, and the role of relational factors. Specifically, it considers Human Resource Management practices from a network-level perspective, which is currently understudied. By doing so, this study adds a unique perspective to the Human Resource Management, sustainable employability and career literature streams.

Details

Journal of Workplace Learning, vol. 37 no. 9
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1366-5626

Keywords

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