Photovoice

Addressing Youths’ Concerns in a Juvenile Detention Facility

Abstract

This study used the photovoice method for a participatory needs assessment and asset inventory in a juvenile detention center setting. Traditionally, juvenile justice facilities have emphasized punishments and sanctions. The positive youth development perspective offers a more balanced approach between punishment and rehabilitation that encourages youth empowerment in improving their community. The purpose of this project was to empower youth in detention to document their struggles, critically discuss the results, and recommend any improvements to the detention center’s authority.

Youth documented the following strengths: family was valued whether or not the relationship was healthy; the center’s structure added stability; participants’ talents helped them cope; and staff were supportive. Concerns included participants’ struggles with growth and progression through the center’s programming.