Agency and Ambivalence: Young Men's Narratives of Entering and Navigating Criminal Environments

Gang-related violence and youth crime are highly topical issues that have dominated public debate in Sweden in recent years. This study aims to contribute to existing knowledge and perceptions of the target group—young men who participate in such environments. It does so by focusing more deeply on how young men describe and present themselves in relation to their involvement in and experiences of criminal settings. The study is based on interviews with boys aged 15–19 who have been involved in criminal environments and placed in secure youth care (SiS).

The first part of the study explores how identity constructions are formed through the boys’ self-presentations. It focuses on the agency and positions they articulate, often expressing independence and entrepreneurial traits. The second part highlights more complex aspects, illustrating ambivalence about their involvement as well as reflective portrayals of themselves. These narratives reveal more hesitant and caring dimensions in the boys’ stories.