Youth violence and crime

In this research project we explore violence and crime among young people in Finland, and the phenomena behind it. In recent years, special attention has been paid to robberies and street violence among minors and concerns about its growth and increased severity have been raised. The public debate has been dominated by the perspectives of the police and other authorities in addition with those of politicians, while there has not been enough up-to-date research knowledge available.

The research carried out during the project will contribute to the knowledge gaps related to ahistorical accounts, lack of local perspectives, and insufficient understanding of young people’s experiences, cultures and group-relations. The research utilizes both quantitative and qualitative data, as well as official data and information collected directly from young people. The research knowledge produced helps to increase our understand of the underlying mechanisms and phenomena behind youth violence and to develop youth-oriented solutions to prevent youth crime.

Funding and research partners

The research project is funded by cities of Oulu, Tampere and Vantaa, and Ministry of Education and Culture. Collaborating partners in the project are Itla – Equal wellbeing for children and families and THL – Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare.