Perceptions of antisocial behaviour and negative attitudes towards young people: focus group evidence from adult residents of disadvantaged urban neighbourhoods (Glasgow, UK)

Egan, M., Neary, J. , Keenan, P.J. and Bond, L. (2013) Perceptions of antisocial behaviour and negative attitudes towards young people: focus group evidence from adult residents of disadvantaged urban neighbourhoods (Glasgow, UK). Journal of Youth Studies, 16(5), pp. 612-627. (doi: 10.1080/13676261.2012.733809)

Abstract

This qualitative study explores claims that concern about antisocial behaviour (ASB) may be linked to generally negative attitudes towards young people. The study uses focus groups, sampling adults living in disadvantaged urban neighbourhoods (Glasgow, UK). We found some evidence of negative attitudes, in the form of generalised negative stereotyping of young people, but not of a ‘general climate of intolerance’. During the focus group discussions, the kinds of comments made about young people ranged from strongly pejorative to sympathetic and empathetic. On the whole, the discussions tended to emphasise the heterogeneity of young people and their behaviours, suggesting that many local young people were not perceived to be perpetrators of ASB. The findings indicate that although adult residents of disadvantaged urban neighbourhoods perceive young people's ASB to be a serious issue, they assume that such behaviours occur in the context of poor environments, poor parenting and poor adult behaviour.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Egan, Dr Matthew and Keenan, Dr Peter and Neary, Dr Joanne and Bond, Professor Lyndal
• Authors: Egan, M., Neary, J., Keenan, P.J., and Bond, L.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > Public Health; College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > MRC/CSO SPHSU; College of Social Sciences > Adam Smith Business School > Management
• Journal Name: Journal of Youth Studies
• Publisher: Routledge
• ISSN: 1367-6261
• ISSN (Online): 1469-9680