Conceptualizing Social Determinants of Neighborhood Health through a Youth Lens

This study reports on findings from a youth participatory action research of children's well-being and health. We draw upon the Social Determinants of Health framework, including a focus on structural racism and intersectionality, to holistically explore the ways in which youth (ages 13-17) experience multiple forms of marginalization within the neighborhood, and how these experiences influence their well-being outcomes. We employed the data collection techniques of focus group discussion, community mapping, photovoice, and follow-up small group discussions with 14 African American youth in Cleveland, Ohio. Utilizing participatory thematic analysis, the participants established four main thematic categories connected to the neighborhood which have a strong influence on youth health and well-being. These categories included: (1) Crime and safety; (2) Housing and the built environment; (3) Social Influence; (4) Community Activities. By involving youth as co-constructors of the research, we elicited perspectives on the pathways between a healthy neighborhood to healthy residents, with implications for future research, policy, and intervention programming aimed at improving the health and well-being of children and youth.