Beyond Demographic Risk Profiles: A Test of Individual vs. Facility-Environment Correlates of Youth-in-Custody Violent Victimization

• In Event: Contemporary Review of Predictors of Juvenile Offending

Abstract

Objective: Research on juveniles in correctional facilities has largely focused on violence and rule violations, with scant attention to in-custody victimization. Environmental and demographic factors linked to assault remain understudied. This study examines how youth demographics and facility conditions correlate with staff-on-youth and youth-on-youth assault.
Data/Methods: Using the 2018 National Survey of Youth in Custody, we tested associations between demographic and facility-related factors and victimization. Two logistic regression models distinguished staff-on-youth from youth-on-youth victimization (n=6,910).

Results: Negative assessments of staff conduct, facility maintenance, and personnel size had a stronger impact on victimization than demographic factors. Facility noise and the presence of gang activity were most strongly associated with victimization, along with unnecessary staff use of force. Among demographics, race and sex were significant: Hispanic youth were less likely to report staff-on-youth assaults than Black youth, while White youth were more likely to report youth-on-youth assaults. Biological women were more likely to report youth-on-youth assaults than men. Other demographic factors showed weak correlations.

Conclusions/Implications: Findings suggest prioritizing improvements in facility conditions—such as staff behavior, maintenance, and noise levels—could more effectively reduce assault than solely focusing on at-risk victim protection.

Authors

• James David Paul, University of Pittsburgh

• Jett Ruding, University of Pittsburgh

• Hyunjung Shim, University of Pittsburgh