An exploratory study of the WiseGuyz program with youth in a custodial setting in Canada

Purpose This study aims to explore the implementation of a gender-transformative intervention (GTI), WiseGuyz, with adolescent boys in a Canadian youth custodial setting. It addresses a critical gap in youth rehabilitation by considering how addressing masculinity norms may be an important consideration in youth justice interventions. Design/methodology/approach Using a qualitative design, we conducted semistructured interviews between 2021 and 2023 with 11 youth and 5 staff and facilitators involved with a version of a program called WiseGuyz, adapted for use in criminal justice settings (WiseGuyz-CJY). We used a codebook reliability thematic analysis to identify ideas related to program relevance, implementation and utility. Findings We identified two central themes: the relevance of GTIs in youth custodial settings and key implementation considerations. While we found that hegemonic masculinity norms were reinforced by the carceral environment, some youth reported increased awareness of gender diversity, empathy and critical reflection on masculinity following WiseGuyz-CJY. Program structure (e.g. rolling intake, group size) and setting-specific developmental differences (e.g. educational attainment) impacted engagement. Social implications Incorporating gender-transformative strategies into youth justice programming to target masculinity norms as a fluid risk factor for delinquency should be explored as a component of rehabilitation within custodial environments. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first known study to explore a gender-transformative program tailored for justice-involved boys in Canada. It contributes to the emerging literature on developmentally appropriate, gender-focused interventions within youth carceral settings.