In Other Troops

Stories About Violence

This book contains the short biographies of three violent individuals, as told in separate interviews. The first part illustrates social exclusion in the context of youth gangs, the second alcohol-related violence, and the third describes violence associated with drug trade. The biographies reveal insights into the relationship between pharmacological effects of drugs and violence, subcultural aspects, concepts of structural and cultural violence, and precursors of giving up violent lifestyles. All three narratives emphasize the importance of building and maintaining communication for the prevention of violence. As the interviewees all underwent profound transitions out of their criminal lifestyles, this book may also serve as an example for individuals seeking a nonviolent life.