This project proposes to research the role of young people (12-18 year olds) in local communities experiencing conflict and disorder and how these actions affect the health and social well being of the people living in these areas. Within the Northern Health and Social Services Board (NHSSB) area there are particular problems with community disorder, sectarian violence and drug use. These problems have been evident in areas such as Larne, Ballymena, Antrim and Coleraine.

This project aims to:

1. Investigate the role played by young people in inter and intra community disorder and violence;
2. Explore the factors facilitating their participation in disorder and violence;
3. Determine the nature of their attitudes towards their own and neighbouring communities.

Objectives:

1. Ascertain the factors (such as drugs and alcohol) that contribute to young people becoming involved in street violence, rioting and forms of anti-social behaviour;
2. Investigate community responses to such violence;
3. Establish the range of options for help for communities and young people;
4. Assess alternative forms of response to such behaviour.

Methods
The research methods employed will be both quantitative and qualitative in nature. The quantitative and qualitative aspects of this project will run in parallel and local informants will potentially be involved in both aspects of the project.

Quantitative data
The quantitative aspect of this study will have two parts. Statistics and figures will be collected to indicate quality of life in areas within the NHSSB and a quantitative survey will be conducted among young people (12-18 year olds) in the NHSSB area.

Qualitative data
Investigative studies will be carried out in each of area including interviews with youth and community workers, members of the educational, legal and policing authorities to assess the need and feasibility of doing more in depth research. It is then envisaged that two areas will be selected for detailed qualitative research including individual interviews and focus groups with young men and women, youth and community workers, local residents and members of the educational, legal and policing authorities.