Healing wounded relationships to reduce Latino youth violence

Latino male youth in the United States are disproportionately affected by violence. This study explores the experiences that young Latino males in a long-term correctional treatment center have had with violence. An iterative qualitative research design was used to guide sequential periods of data collection and analysis. Data was gathered through the use of open-ended, semistructured group and individual interviews. The information that these young men shared about their lives both in and out of the facility highlight the importance of healing wounded relationships. Long-term interventions that focus on healing, strengthening, and building the relationships that high-risk Latino youth have with caring adults will help to decrease their risk of suffering further violence-related morbidity and mortality.