The Role of Services in Children's Identity Formation, and How This Influences Children's Involvement in Violence in England

This research report investigates the role of services in shaping children’s identity formation, and how these identity-forming experiences in turn influence children’s involvement in violence in England. Previous research has highlighted how services can help protect children from (or increase vulnerability to), involvement in violence. There is, however, relatively limited research specifically exploring how children’s identity development fits into these dynamics. This study addresses a critical gap in the evidence base by focusing on the ways in which systems of support – including education, social care, youth justice, mental health and youth work services – affect children’s sense of self, and how this influences their vulnerability to engaging in violence. It contributes rich, qualitative evidence both from professionals working in the system of support, and from children and young people themselves, with the aim of informing more effective and equitable approaches to violence reduction.