Meanings of the 'world of crime' for adolescents at treatment facilities, Brazil

Abstract

This study aims to comprehend meanings of the world of crime among adolescents at treatment facilities. The participants of this study were 25 male adolescents (15 to 19 years) at four treatment facilities in the states of Espírito Santo and Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Two focal groups in each state were held, interpreted using the Thematic Analysis technique. The meanings expressed by participants revealed that their affiliation with the world of crime meets their needs of economic security, strengthening of personal identity, social recognition, sense of belonging, and physical protection. Their involvement in the world of crime consists of a hidden resilience process. The comprehension of adolescents' perspectives of the world of crime can inform services so that they are able to meet their material and symbolic needs and prevent risks.