Jareno Ripoll, Sandra, Browne, Kevin, Green, Kathleen and Paddock, Elizabeth
(2024)
The psychology of youth knife crime.
DForenPsy thesis, University of Nottingham.
Abstract
Knife crime continues to be a prevalent crime type affecting children and young people in the UK. It has been highlighted that there are large gaps and limitations within knife crime research literature, which makes it difficult to draw strong conclusions about what works to reduce knife crime.
This thesis addresses the scarcity of evidence-based exploration into youth knife offending through a comprehensive literature review and original research on characteristics and interventions. The literature review revealed a limited number of studies specifically focused on knife crime, identifying 15 on Characteristics and 6 on prevention. The findings on characteristics suggested that there are different types of knife-crime and that the most promising prevention was access to tailored support regarding housing, education, and employment which showed an impact in reducing weapon carrying. Chapter 3 utilized Smallest Space Analysis to unveil meaningful associations among offender characteristics. The two main typologies were gang related (instrumental) knife aggression and personal adversity (hostile) knife aggression. Chapter 4 critically assessed the AssetPlus framework, pinpointing limitations in the Speech, Language, Communication, and Neuro-Disability (SLCN) and mental health components. Chapter 5 evaluated the SHERBET program, which was received positively by schools. The findings suggested the need to tailor interventions for specific knife offender subtypes.
The expressive-instrumental model of aggression and the Good Lives Model provided a theoretical foundation, highlighting the importance of addressing root causes and individual motivations. Recommendations for practice include further research on knife offender characteristics, assessments, and interventions, considering subtypes of offenders throughout.
Overall, this thesis contributes to understanding youth knife offending, shedding light on offender characteristics, assessments, and interventions. The recommendations underscore the need for ongoing research and collaboration in the youth justice field to effectively combat the complex issue of knife crime among young individuals.
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