Words Matter: Communication & Transparency
A Listening Guide to the Roadmap for Change Podcast, Episode 6
This episode provides examples and reflections on how to improve communication and transparency in juvenile justice settings.
Welcome to the Episode 6 Listening Guide!
Making change in the juvenile justice system can be as simple, and as difficult, as making time to describe in plain language why a decision was made, pausing a meeting to ensure everyone at the table agrees with what a word means, and reflecting on the impact our word choice may have on a youth or families conception of themself. This episode of the Roadmap for Change podcast provides examples and reflections on how to improve communication and transparency in juvenile justice settings.
As you listen (Step 1), feel free to take notes, and then take some time with the reflection questions when you’re done (Step 2). This will help you process some of the more complex topics and find the ways that they intersect with your own life experiences, work, and circle of influence. Then, choose one of the possible action items (Step 3) that feels accessible and see if you can put it into practice.
Step 1: Listen to the Episode
Step 2: Consider These Reflection Questions
1
What references have you had for understanding the legal system and terms? Who was helpful or unhelpful for understanding the juvenile justice system?
2
What words do you hear adults use to refer to youth? How might these words help or hurt a youth’s sense of self?
3
Think about your interactions at work, school, or in your community. What are some groups or situations that deal with lots of misunderstandings that might benefit from talking about shared definitions of words/ideas?
Step 3: Take an Action Step
Journal about the words or language you want to hear used more or less in conversations about youth. Identify opportunities where you can use the changed language in everyday conversations.
Start a conversation at work, school, or in your community to see if you have the same definitions for important ideas you reference all the time.
Think about a specific challenge you or a loved one is facing. Research local resources in your community for support by talking with your friends or religious/community leaders, calling your local library or community center, or searching online.
Check out and share these highlight clips from the episode!