Understanding Victimization, Safety Perceptions, and Aggression in Juvenile Detention

• In Event: Contemporary Review of Predictors of Juvenile Offending

Abstract

Research suggests that juvenile detention can lead to several unintended consequences for juveniles. This study uses Agnew’s General Strain Theory to examine how strains experienced during juvenile detention impact negative emotionality and maladaptive coping. Specifically, we employ secondary data from the Northwestern Juvenile Project (N = 389) to assess how victimization during juvenile detention impacts feelings of safety and future fighting while in detention. We find evidence of partial mediation, wherein feelings of safety contribute to fighting behavior. These findings highlight the significance of addressing victimization for improving safety perceptions and provide guidance to enhance the emotional and behavioral well-being of incarcerated youth.

Authors

• Peyton Stephenson, University of Mississippi

• Katharine L. Brown, The University of Mississippi

• D'Andre Walker, University of Mississippi