[Baltimore Sun] Tackling youth violence in Baltimore requires understanding | GUEST COMMENTARY
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Youth violence in Baltimore has reached alarming levels, with the city grappling with elevated rates of juvenile delinquency. Recent discussions by Baltimore’s state’s attorney, Ivan Bates, and other stakeholders underscore the pressing need to address this crisis. As policymakers strive to devise effective remedies, it is imperative to comprehend the developmental phase of emerging adulthood. By incorporating this knowledge into policies that are both compassionate and efficient, it is possible to mitigate the negative effects of youth violence in Baltimore.
According to psychologist Jeffrey Arnett’s theory of emerging adulthood, there exists a distinct period between the ages of 18 and 25 that is marked by exploration and instability. This phase is crucial for individuals transitioning from adolescence to maturity, and it provides a valuable opportunity to understand why certain young people may engage in violent behavior and how they can be guided toward more constructive paths.
Arnett delineates five essential characteristics of emerging adulthood, including identity exploration, instability, self-focus, feeling in-between, and a sense of broad possibilities. These elements emphasize the fluid and often turbulent dynamics of this transitional period. Policymakers ought to acknowledge that emerging adults are not merely “older adolescents” or “young adults” but rather individuals in a distinctive phase that demands tailored approaches.
The city of Baltimore grapples with the challenge of youth violence, which is exacerbated by various risk factors. These include socio-economic disadvantages, exposure to violence, lack of educational and employment prospects and unstable family environments. Emerging adults are particularly susceptible to these factors due to the inherent instability and ongoing identity exploration that characterizes this developmental phase.
The challenges faced by individuals from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds in Baltimore are numerous, particularly for young people who struggle with poverty and inadequate access to resources. Research conducted by Arnett in 2004 revealed that emerging adults from such backgrounds are at a higher risk of engaging in risky behaviors as they strive to establish their independence and grapple with stress. Unfortunately, this can lead to involvement in criminal activities, including acts of violence.
Exposure to violence is a critical risk element. Many young individuals in Baltimore mature in neighborhoods where violence is a recurrent event. Arnett shows how such surroundings can significantly influence the psychological development of emerging adults, potentially leading to heightened aggression and criminal conduct.
Although the dangers are pronounced, there are also safeguarding factors that if present can diminish the probability of youth violence. These comprise robust familial backing, favorable peer impacts, access to education and employment, and engagement in community initiatives. Strengthening these protective elements can aid in diminishing juvenile crime rates in Baltimore. Here are a few ways we can make those factors a reality in the lives of Baltimore’s youth:
Strengthening familial structures and community networks can offer the stability and support necessary for emerging adults. Implementing programs that provide parenting support, family counseling, and facilitate community-building activities can create an environment where young individuals feel valued and supported.
Ensuring access to quality education and vocational training programs is essential. As noted by Arnett, providing emerging adults with opportunities to develop skills and achieve independence is highly beneficial. By investing in education and vocational training, policies can offer young individuals valuable alternatives to engaging in criminal activities.
Addressing mental health is crucial for curbing youth violence. Numerous emerging adults in Baltimore confront trauma and mental health issues stemming from their surroundings. Ensuring access to mental health services, such as counseling and therapy, can aid them in coping with these challenges in healthier ways.
Effective programs that involve young individuals in positive activities are highly beneficial. Engaging in sports, arts and community service initiatives provides constructive avenues for channeling energy and creativity. Moreover, these programs instill a sense of belonging and purpose, which is particularly crucial during the identity exploration phase, as highlighted by Arnett.
A juvenile justice system that emphasizes rehabilitation instead of punishment is critical in addressing the needs of emerging adults. This approach can be enhanced through the implementation of restorative justice programs, mentoring and education within the justice system. By providing these resources, young offenders can successfully reintegrate into society and reduce the likelihood of committing future offenses.
Addressing the issue of youth violence in Baltimore requires a thorough understanding of the developmental stage of emerging adulthood. By incorporating the findings of Arnett’s research, policymakers can create strategies that address the risk and protective factors that affect young people. This approach can lead to the development of more effective and compassionate policies, which in turn can decrease juvenile crime and create a safer, more supportive environment for the youth of Baltimore.
We have a chance to reconsider the methods we use to assist emerging adults, ensuring they have the necessary resources and direction to navigate this critical phase of existence. This approach can help build a more promising future for Baltimore and its youth.
Antoine Lovell (antoine.lovell@morgan.edu) is an assistant professor of social work at Morgan State University.
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