The lived experiences of credible messengers: An interpretative phenomenological analysis

The Credible Messenger Model has, in recent years, emerged as a community-based approach used in violence prevention and reentry initiatives, supporting justice-involved individuals. While existing research has largely focused on program effectiveness, less attention has been given to how individuals in these roles experience and construct their work in practice. This thesis explores the lived experiences of Credible Messengers and how they understand and navigate their roles. An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) approach was employed, utilizing semi-structured interviews with six Credible Messengers. Data were analyzed to identify shared patterns of meaning within and across participants’ experiences, resulting in five superordinate themes and their accompanying subordinate themes. Findings suggest that credibility is embedded in shared lived experience, specifically participants' prior involvement in the criminal justice system, serving as a foundation for trust and relational engagement. Participants described their work as shaped by personal transformation, a commitment to supporting others, and intentional connection. They also navigated organizational, institutional, and societal barriers that influence how support was provided. These insights highlight the importance of lived experience, relational engagement, and community-based approaches in supporting justice-involved individuals, while underscoring the need for greater systemic support to sustain their work.