From Theory to Action: Advancing Research and Practice in Community Violence Intervention (CVI)

Session Submission Type: Complete Thematic Panel

Abstract/Description

This panel will delve into the future of research on Community Violence Intervention (CVI), a critical area of study that seeks to build the evidence-base around community-based intervention efforts to reduce gun violence. The papers will touch on the importance of continued rigorous mixed method research in this area and collectively highlight a variety of study methods to delve deep into evaluative research, as well as basic research that answers complex questions about program engagement, program success and sustainability. Together, the papers will also bring to light the significant challenges that persist, not only within the intervention programs themselves, but also within the realm of researching these initiatives. The panel presenters will discuss the importance of understanding the array of program components that comprise these initiatives and advocate for advancing theory and research on the benefits of growing the CVI workforce and how successful CVI staffing supports secondary and tertiary desistance. By dissecting intervention components, successes and challenges, the panel participants hope to assist in charting a rigorous path forward for both the sound implementation of CVI strategies and the advancement of research studies, ultimately contributing to the broader goal of fostering safer, more resilient communities.

Sub Unit

• Area VII. Non-Criminal Justice Responses to Crime & Delinquency / 58. Community Responses

Individual Presentations

• A Participatory-Action Research Project to Understand CVI Engagement and Risk Assessment - Peter Simonsson, Temple University, Lewis Katz School of Medicine; Quinzel Tomoney, Cure Violence Philadelphia / Temple University, Lewis Katz School of Medicine; Edmund “Tweet” Raymond, Cure Violence Philadelphia / Temple University, Lewis Katz School of Medicine; Caterina Roman, Temple University; Shadd Maruna, Queen's University Belfast

• Making Good as a Credible Messenger: Social Roles and Identity Transformation within CVI - Caterina Roman, Temple University; Peter Simonsson, Temple University, Lewis Katz School of Medicine; Shadd Maruna, Queen's University Belfast; Jesse Brey, Temple University

• Building the Capacity of CVI Organizations: Results from a Strategic Needs Assessment in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania - Franklin Steven Moreno, Temple University; Caterina Roman, Temple University

Chair

• Caterina Roman, Temple University

Discussant

• Jeffrey Butts, Research and Evaluation Center, John Jay College of Criminal Justice, City University of New York