project

The Boston Family Project

Research Team

Project Overview

The Boston Family Project is an in-depth research study that aims to understand how community gun violence affects Greater Boston Area families across multiple generations. We’re looking at the long-term impact of violence on family life, community bonds, and individual well-being. This project goes beyond statistics to explore the real-life stories, struggles, and resilience of families who have experienced gun violence in their community.

Our approach: We have begun conducting detailed interviews with members of Greater Boston Area families who have been affected by gun violence across multiple generations. Here’s what this involves:

  1. Family selection: We’ll carefully choose Greater Boston Area families who represent different experiences with community gun violence. One family has already been selected and interviewed.
  2. Generational perspective: We’ll talk to family members across three generations to understand how violence impacts families over time.
  3. In-depth interviews: Our conversations will be thorough, allowing family members to share their stories in their own words.
  4. Focus areas:
    • Personal experiences with gun violence
    • How violence has affected family relationships and dynamics
    • Challenges faced in the aftermath of violence
    • Coping strategies and sources of strength
    • Needs for support and services
    • Hopes and plans for the future
  5. Safe and supportive environment: We’ll ensure all interviews are conducted in a comfortable, confidential setting where participants feel safe to share their experiences.
  6. Ongoing support: We’ll provide information on available support services for participants who may need them during or after the interview process.

By taking this approach, we aim to gain a deep, nuanced understanding of how gun violence shapes family life in the Greater Boston Area and identify ways to better support affected families and communities.