Living in the Gap: Perceptions of Masculinity and Criminality of Young Men in Kanaleneiland

Abstract

Despite an overall decline in juvenile crime, certain forms are on the rise, prompting the government to make significant efforts to combat and prevent youth involvement in organised crime. Crime has emerged as an alternative employment opportunity for many young people, particularly those in disadvantaged neighbourhoods, where poverty more often drives boys to engage in criminal activities early and easily. While poverty alone is insufficient to explain criminal behaviour, existing research predominantly focuses on extrinsic factors and overlooks intrinsic factors, such as gender. This thesis addresses this gap by conducting semi structured interviews with young men from Kanaleneiland, offering deeper insights into how experiences of poverty shape their perceptions of masculinity and attitudes towards criminal behaviour. Young men from low-income neighbourhoods are acutely aware of their financial position, while shaping their conception of masculine identity, which is based around traditional provider and breadwinner roles, lacking awareness of alternative forms. They often view criminality as a last resort to achieve these roles, recognising the crucial role of finances in attaining this identity. Engaging in crime, while having legal alternatives for achieving hegemonic masculinity, is stigmatised. Due to limited exposure to diverse masculinities and pathways to achieve them, they remain trapped in a cycle where criminal behaviour is perceived as sometimes necessary for their gender identity. An intervention has to be developed to prevent criminal behaviour among young men in Kanaleneiland. It is recommended to introduce diverse masculinities and positive role models, who demonstrate various paths achieving their ideal masculinity.