The
Role of Young People in Community Conflict -
the effect on social well-being
|
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:
- Investigate the
role played by young people in inter and intra community disorder
and violence;
- Explore the factors
facilitating their participation in disorder and violence;
- Determine the
nature of their attitudes towards their own and neighbouring communities.
Objectives:
- 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;
- Investigate community
responses to such violence;
- Establish the
range of options for help for communities and young people;
- 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.
|