An exploratory study of young adult black and Latino males and the factors facilitating their decisions to make positive behavioral changes

Abstract

This paper focuses on one factor that facilitated decisions to make positive behavioral changes among twenty young adult Black and Latino males who had previously been involved in crimes such as illegal drug marketing, crimes of violence, and property crimes. The respondents were part of an exploratory study that collected data through extensive interviews. The interviews disclosed several personal and environmental factors that facilitated their decisions to change. The factor addressed in this paper is their concern and respect for children demonstrated through fatherhood and mentorship. Implications for social work, social service providers, and youth program staff are discussed.