24th Annual Student Research Conference
Photovoice: Assisting Youth in a Juvenile Detention Facility in Telling their Story
Jenna N. Osseck*, Ashley B. Hartman, and Rachel L. Van Cleave
Dr. Carol Cox, Faculty Mentor
This study used the photovoice method as a participatory needs assessment/asset inventory in a juvenile detention center setting. Traditionally, juvenile justice facilities have emphasized punishments and sanctions. The positive youth development perspective, a more balanced approach between punishment and rehabilitation that encourages youth empowerment in improving their community, has been recommended in the literature. The purpose of the project was to empower youth in detention to document their struggles, critically discuss the results, and recommend any improvements to the detention centers levels of power. Participants documented the following strengths: family was valued whether or not the relationship was healthy, the centers structure added stability, participants talents helped them cope, and staff were supportive. Concerns included participants struggles with coping as well as growth and progression through the centers programming. Overall, the method added youth voice to the needs assessment process.
Keywords: Juvenile detention, Photovoice methodology, At-risk youth, Participatory needs assessment
Topic(s):Health Science
Presentation Type: Poster
Session: 10-5
Location: Georgian Room - SUB
Time: 4:30