Neighborhood Institutions and Well-Being: Youth Perspectives From East Oakland

Abstract

Objective: A growing literature suggests that the relationships youths maintain with neighborhood institutions such as youth centers and schools have a substantial influence on their well-being. However, research in this area often relies on the perspectives of adults and neglects youth experiences. This is problematic given that young people have choice when selecting neighborhood institutions to engage with. Thus, our study highlights youth voice and lived experiences to explore what neighborhood institutions are important to young people and begins to unpack how they view their institutional engagement as influencing their well-being. Method: Using exploratory qualitative methods, we conducted semistructured interviews with 10 youths ages 14–20 living in East Oakland, CA, to identify how neighborhood institutions shape adolescent well-being. Results: Youth-serving organizations, schools, and churches provide important opportunities for young people to develop their well-being. Youths reported that through these institutions they can strengthen their connectedness to social networks, increase optimism, and develop skills necessary for future career success. Conclusions: It is critical that social workers consider the diversity of program offerings being implemented across siloed sites and the policy decisions that influence funding streams necessary for institutions to continue offering services that strengthen adolescent well-being.

Publication Title

Journal of the Society for Social Work and Research

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