Keywords

boxing, youth violence, criminology, masculinity, trauma, desistance, community, mental health, gender, sports sociology

Summary

In this conversation, Deborah Jump discusses her extensive research on the intersection of boxing, youth violence, and masculinity. She explores why boxing is particularly appealing to young men at risk of crime, the complex relationship between boxing and violence, and the societal perceptions surrounding the sport. Jump emphasizes the psychological aspects of boxing, including how it can reinforce notions of masculinity and respect, while also providing a sense of community and routine. She reflects on the benefits and drawbacks of boxing as a sport, particularly in relation to mental health and trauma, and shares her transition from studying boxing to focusing on forensic studies in youth violence.

Takeaways

• Boxing is appealing to young men as it allows them to rehearse masculine identities.
• The sport can create a community that fosters strength and power.
• Boxing may reinforce the idea that violence is an acceptable solution.
• Respect in boxing culture can often be rooted in fear.
• There is no substantial evidence linking boxing to crime reduction.
• Boxing can have positive impacts on mental health, such as reducing anxiety.
• The culture of boxing can perpetuate harmful messages about violence.
• Young women also use boxing to reclaim ownership of their bodies.
• Therapy is essential for those working in trauma-related fields.
• The motivations for engaging in boxing can be complex and multifaceted.

Deborah Jump is the co-director for the Manchester Centre for Youth Studies at Manchester Metropolitan University and she has 20 years experience of working in youth justice as both a practitioner and a manager. Deborah's current research focuses on trauma and youth justice with a particular interest in the impact of serious youth violence and forensic psychotherapeutic methods. She is training to be a psychoanalytic psychotherapist

Keywords

boxing, youth violence, criminology, masculinity, trauma, desistance, community, mental health, gender, sports sociology

Summary

In this conversation, Deborah Jump discusses her extensive research on the intersection of boxing, youth violence, and masculinity. She explores why boxing is particularly appealing to young men at risk of crime, the complex relationship between boxing and violence, and the societal perceptions surrounding the sport. Jump emphasizes the psychological aspects of boxing, including how it can reinforce notions of masculinity and respect, while also providing a sense of community and routine. She reflects on the benefits and drawbacks of boxing as a sport, particularly in relation to mental health and trauma, and shares her transition from studying boxing to focusing on forensic studies in youth violence.

Takeaways

• Boxing is appealing to young men as it allows them to rehearse masculine identities.
• The sport can create a community that fosters strength and power.
• Boxing may reinforce the idea that violence is an acceptable solution.
• Respect in boxing culture can often be rooted in fear.
• There is no substantial evidence linking boxing to crime reduction.
• Boxing can have positive impacts on mental health, such as reducing anxiety.
• The culture of boxing can perpetuate harmful messages about violence.
• Young women also use boxing to reclaim ownership of their bodies.
• Therapy is essential for those working in trauma-related fields.
• The motivations for engaging in boxing can be complex and multifaceted.

Deborah Jump is the co-director for the Manchester Centre for Youth Studies at Manchester Metropolitan University and she has 20 years experience of working in youth justice as both a practitioner and a manager. Deborah's current research focuses on trauma and youth justice with a particular interest in the impact of serious youth violence and forensic psychotherapeutic methods. She is training to be a psychoanalytic psychotherapist

Keywords

criminal justice, parole, life sentences, probation, reintegration, mental health, support systems, identity, relationships, research

Takeaways

• Preparation for parole does not equate to preparation for community life.
• The parole board's focus is on compliance rather than personal growth.
• Academic credentials can provide a pathway for reintegration.
• Probation often lacks effective support for individuals on life sentences.
• Institutionalization can hinder personal development post-release.
• Access to housing and employment is a significant challenge for released individuals.
• Relationships are crucial for successful reintegration but often lack support.
• Disclosure of past convictions can complicate personal relationships.
• Identity management is a complex issue for those released from prison.
• Lived experience should inform criminal justice policy and practice.

Summary

In this episode of the Locked Up Living podcast, Naomi Murphy and David Jones speak with Simon Scott, who shares his extensive experience in the criminal justice system, both as a former inmate and as a professional working in the field. They discuss the challenges faced by individuals preparing for parole and the stark contrast between that preparation and the realities of life in the community. Simon reflects on his academic journey, the inadequacies of probation support, and the complexities of reintegrating into society after a long prison sentence. The conversation highlights the importance of relationships, mental health support, and the need for a more empathetic and informed approach to criminal justice policy.