Resilience in the Face of Community Violence: A Community-Based Perspective
Walker, I. A., Smith Lee, J. R., Payton Foh, E., McKoy, P., & Johnson, M. H. (2024). “Resilience looks like me”: Community stakeholder perspectives on resilience in Black boys and young men exposed to community violence. The American psychologist, 79(8), 1092–1108. https://doi.org/10.1037/amp0001343
Summarized by Mia Lamont
Introduction
The resilience of Black boys and young men in the face of community violence remains an understudied yet critical issue in public health and psychology. Walker and colleagues (2024) stress the persistent racial disparities in exposure to violence and its long-term consequences, including trauma, educational disruption, and involvement in the criminal justice system. They highlight the importance of understanding resilience not merely as an individual trait, but as a process shaped by broader community dynamics.
Methods
The authors interviewed 29 community members, including activists, religious leaders, teachers, health professionals, nonprofit organizers, and law enforcement officials. Participants were selected through recommendations from others and intentional outreach to ensure a diverse set of voices. The interviews allowed participants to thoroughly share their experiences and perspectives, and the authors analyzed the conversations by identifying patterns and key themes.
Results
Participants defined resilience in interconnected ways, using descriptors such as “prospering through the process,” “bounce back,” “triumph,” and “resistance.” These definitions reflected resilience as both a psychological and social process, emphasizing meaning-making in the face of adversity. Key facilitators of resilience included access to safe spaces, positive mentorship, and community collaboration.
Conversely, barriers to resilience were identified, including systemic racial inequities and a lack of coordination among service providers.
Discussion
This study broadens the understanding of resilience by moving beyond individual coping skills to emphasize the role of community structures. Participants indicated that resilience and vulnerability often coexist, reinforcing the idea that overcoming adversity is not just about personal strength, but also about having external support systems.
The findings also suggest that resilience-building should involve multiple sectors, including educators, faith-based organizations, and healthcare providers, all working together to create environments where Black boys and young men can thrive.
Implications for Mentoring Programs
Effective mentorship should extend beyond individual relationships to reach broader community networks. Trauma-informed mentoring programs that address systemic barriers while fostering hope and empowerment are essential. Additionally, mentorship initiatives should prioritize cultural awareness and collaboration with other community organizations.
Investing in resilience-focused programs—such as safe spaces for open discussions, restorative justice practices, and partnerships between schools, faith groups, and mental health services—can equip Black boys and young men with the necessary tools to navigate adversity and build a strong future.
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