If you’re a thief, then you’re a thief: Incarcerated youth experiences of free time in Valdivia

Abstract

This investigation analyzes how young men convicted of stealing self-identify as such through the concepts of respect and masculinity at the CIP-CRC Valdivia detention center for minors. The research was carried out from June-Dec 2020. Through ethnography and participatory art projects, the study explores their codes, slang and lack of participation in the center’s workshops. Based on the results, we propose establishing a collaborative system of responsibility with the young inmates, considering the framework of respect and masculinity.