A criminalização da masculinidade negra e a naturalização da violência

Abstract

Structural racism and male socialization impact the lives of black men in Brazil by limiting them to a performance of masculinity that is often violent, contributing to involvement in criminal activities. In this context, the study investigates how adverse childhood experiences influence the normalization of violence and violent behavior in adulthood, considering social and psychological aspects. To this end, 4 black men with a history of incarceration were interviewed using a semi-structured interview, the International Scale of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE-IQ), and a vignette-based instrument. The results indicate that exposure to community and family violence from childhood contributes to the normalization of violent behavior and pathways leading to crime. Finally, the study highlights the need for a multidimensional approach aimed at breaking the cycle of social vulnerability and violence, as well as a reform of the penal system that disproportionately incarcerates black men.