Steps Toward Transformation

Finding Common Ground Between Black Young People and Police to Promote Safety and Equity

Bibliographic Data

ID7158657
AuthorsR L Fix (0000-0002-5506-3960, Department of Mental Health Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health Baltimore Maryland USA, corresponding author), Dylan B Jackson (0000-0002-4726-6573, Department of Population, Family, and Reproductive Health Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health Baltimore Maryland USA)
Year2026
Volume54
Issue1
Publication date2026-01-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueJournal of Community Psychology (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0090-4392 • E-ISSN: 1520-6629
PublisherWiley (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1002/jcop.70064
OpenAlexW4416957613
LanguageEN
Citations received1
References cited75

It is essential to understand community perspectives about how to promote safe and equitable interactions between Black young people and police. We conducted individual interviews with 35 Black young people (15–22 years) and 10 focus group discussions with 50 police representing multiple ranks/roles. Findings indicated that both young people and police view four policing practices as essential: respect, communication skills, empathy/understanding, and engaging young people in nonenforcement contexts. Young people wanted less use of force, more cultural sensitivity and antiracism, and recognition of youth‐positive behavior. Some felt nothing could remediate youth‐police ruptures. Police noted the importance of a positive mindset and using developmentally appropriate language with young people. Despite reservations, both groups envisioned a future with more positive interactions and outcomes. If members of these two groups can co‐imagine short‐term policing solutions, we should invest in such efforts. Moreover, we must prioritize strategies that reduce harm and support young people, namely efforts moving us toward safety and dignity without relying on policing as the primary foundation for justice

Common ground · Dignity · Equity (law) · Focus group · Foundation (evidence) · Harm · Mindset · Young person · Crime Patterns and Interventions · Education Discipline and Inequality · Policing Practices and Perceptions

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