TURNING-POINTS IN THE LIVES OF YOUNG INNER-CITY MEN FORGOING DESTRUCTIVE CRIMINAL BEHAVIORS - A QUALITATIVE STUDY

This article explores the lives of inner-city African American and Lat ino American young men previously involved in trajectories of destruct ive behavior, including violence, illegal drug marketing, and other cr imes, who had made positive behavioral changes and were now contributi ng to their community's well-being. In-depth interviews with 20 young men examined their life courses from the time of their earliest memori es. Personal and environmental transitions that contributed to their d ecisions to change were uncovered. Maturation was a significant factor in their transition experiences; however, findings indicated four oth er significant factors: respect and concern for children; fear of phys ical harm, incarceration, or both; contemplation time; and support and modeling. Implications for social services providers, policymakers, a nd youth program staff are discussed.