The Impact of Victimization and Mental Health on Juvenile Justice Processing: Does Gender Matter?

• In Event: The Role of Gender in Juvenile Justice Decision-Making and Treatment

Abstract

Research shows that girls tend to have lengthier abuse histories and more mental health problems compared to boys, but little research has examined the extent to which these factors are associated with punitiveness in the juvenile justice system. This study investigates the impact of victimization, educational differences, and mental health problems on intake and adjudication decisions across gender. Further, the study builds on prior work by examining both punitive (e.g., detention) and rehabilitative (e.g., diversion) outcomes. Data come from the centralized database of the juvenile justice office in a mid-Atlantic state. Findings suggest that mental health, victimization and educational status are associated with increased punitiveness at intake but few gender differences emerged. Implications for policy and practice will be discussed.

Authors

• Allison T. Chappell, Old Dominion University

• Scott R. Maggard, Old Dominion University

• Asha Ralph, Old Dominion University