Youth and Parent Perspectives on Patient-Centered Outcomes for a Pediatric Hospital-Based Violence Intervention Program

BACKGROUND: Hospital-based violence intervention programs (HVIPs) aim to interrupt cycles of violence and support recovery among youth exposed to interpersonal violence. However, HVIP evaluations often rely on deficit-oriented outcomes (i.e., reinjury, mortality, criminal justice system involvement) that may not reflect priorities of youth and families. OBJECTIVE: To determine youth and parent perspectives on patient-centered outcomes, needs, and priorities following violent injury. METHODS: Focus groups were conducted with youth and parents connected to community-based organizations (CBOs) collaborating with a pediatric HVIP. Focus group participants were engaged as community proxies for HVIP participants given their affiliation with CBOs serving violence-affected communities and their relevant experiences with violence and/or service systems. Focus groups explored definitions of health and success, barriers to healing, and priorities for recovery. Transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis and consensus-based coding. RESULTS: Three focus groups were conducted with a total of 17 participants (12 youth, 5 parents). Five major themes emerged: (1) holistic definitions of health and success; (2) emotional communication and processing during recovery following violent injury; (3) systemic and structural barriers to recovery; (4) social circles as key determinants in healing; (5) the role of trust in recovery. Regarding patient-centered outcome priorities, youth emphasized goal-planning, mental health and social needs, while parents highlighted mental health, mentorship, and repeat injury. CONCLUSIONS: Youth and parents prioritize outcomes that extend beyond traditional HVIP metrics. Incorporating patient-centered outcomes into program evaluation may better capture meaningful recovery and improve trauma-informed design of HVIPs.