A Phenomenological Study of the Lived Experiences of Criminal Gang Members Enrolled in an Employment Program to Reduce Gang-Related Homicides

Date of Conferral

10-25-2023

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Criminal Justice

Advisor

Evaristus Obinyan

Abstract

In collaboration with the local police force, St. Kitts and Nevis's government introduced an Alternative Lifestyle Pathway Program (ALPP). The program reduces gang-related homicides by offering legitimate employment and other incentives to known criminal gang members. The ALPP is an incentive-based program newly introduced in St. Kitts and Nevis, and there is no evidence that the program reduces gang-related homicide. This research investigated the lived experiences of criminal gang members enrolled in the ALPP. By understanding the lived experiences of the criminal gang members enrolled in the program, administrators, and stakeholders can appreciate the program's formation and effectiveness. By understanding the outcomes of such programs in the long term, policymakers can better formulate and implement them. Additionally, incentive-based programs must be structured appropriately alongside other rehabilitative solutions targeting criminal gang members to help reduce gang-related homicides. The primary research question in this study is: What are the lived experiences of criminal gang members enrolled in an employment program to reduce gang-related homicides? Phenomenology and hermeneutic theory of interpretation were used to explore this question. The data for this research were analyzed using coding, categories, and themes, and the hermeneutic circle was used to interpret the data. The study adds value to the positive social change agenda by giving the criminal justice system an evidence-based alternative diversion program to mitigate gang-related homicides and save lives.

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