Fighting to Belong: One Boxer's Story and Lessons for Youth Violence Prevention

• In Event: 46.085 - Roundtable Session 15
  In Roundtable Session: 46.085-21 - Biographical and Documentary Research in Education

Abstract

This research aimed to push past the Hollywood clichés of the ragged youth who walks off the city streets and into the boxing club with anger in his eyes, fire in his heart and dynamite in both fists and proceeds to bludgeon his way to a world title. The researchers collected a life story interview with Mark Hernandez, a 28 year-old professional fighter. This work sought to unearth this boxer’s story and learn about why he got involved and stays involved in boxing. The researchers also sought to understand boxing’s relationship to Mark’s academic and community life. Moreover, the researchers sought to learn how Mark got involved in boxing, what sustains him in the sport.

Author

• Diane P. Ketelle, Mills College