Deborah Jump (Audio); The Impact of Boxing on Youth Violence

Keywords

boxing, youth violence, criminology, masculinity, trauma, desistance, community, mental health, gender, sports sociology

Summary

In this conversation, Deborah Jump discusses her extensive research on the intersection of boxing, youth violence, and masculinity. She explores why boxing is particularly appealing to young men at risk of crime, the complex relationship between boxing and violence, and the societal perceptions surrounding the sport. Jump emphasizes the psychological aspects of boxing, including how it can reinforce notions of masculinity and respect, while also providing a sense of community and routine. She reflects on the benefits and drawbacks of boxing as a sport, particularly in relation to mental health and trauma, and shares her transition from studying boxing to focusing on forensic studies in youth violence.

Takeaways

• Boxing is appealing to young men as it allows them to rehearse masculine identities.
• The sport can create a community that fosters strength and power.
• Boxing may reinforce the idea that violence is an acceptable solution.
• Respect in boxing culture can often be rooted in fear.
• There is no substantial evidence linking boxing to crime reduction.
• Boxing can have positive impacts on mental health, such as reducing anxiety.
• The culture of boxing can perpetuate harmful messages about violence.
• Young women also use boxing to reclaim ownership of their bodies.
• Therapy is essential for those working in trauma-related fields.
• The motivations for engaging in boxing can be complex and multifaceted.

 

Deborah Jump is the co-director for the Manchester Centre for Youth Studies at Manchester Metropolitan University and she has 20 years experience of working in youth justice as both a practitioner and a manager. Deborah's current research focuses on trauma and youth justice with a particular interest in the impact of serious youth violence and forensic psychotherapeutic methods. She is training to be a psychoanalytic psychotherapist