NCJ Number
255806
Journal
American Journal of Community Psychology Volume: 66 Issue: 3-4 Dated: 2020
Date Published
2020
Length
10 pages
Annotation
This article describes the assessment and planning phase of the "Thrive" community-based initiative to reduce violence and address other determinants of health in a community in the Southwestern United States.
Abstract
Using community-based participatory research (CBPR) and an implementation science framework, this study engaged residents and other key stakeholders as equal partners in the assessment and planning process. The Thrive assessment and planning phase involved collaboration among researchers, residents, law enforcement, nonprofit agencies, public health, local government, and other cross-sector partners. This study used implementation science in examining the barriers and facilitators in addressing community health and safety, to assess the nature and scope of health and safety issues, to review existing solutions, to assess the acceptability and necessary adaptations of selected interventions, and to assess feasibility and sustainability of the initiative. Through interviews, focus groups, analysis of crime incident data, geomapping, and direct observations, study findings highlighted the presence of an open-air drug market, the high-stress nature of the community, concern for the lack of opportunities for youth, the lack of trust between residents and law enforcement, and a need to address the built environment to promote safety and well-being. (publisher abstract modified)