Disparities in Juvenile Legal System Processing and Mental Health Outcomes by Race/Ethnicity, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and Gender Expression

• In Event: Advancing Intersectional Feminist Criminology Research and Practice on the Juvenile Legal System

Abstract

Previous research has examined the overrepresentation of youth of color in the juvenile legal system (JLS). Scholars have also identified that lesbian, gay, transgender, and queer/questioning (LGBTQ+), along with gender non-conforming youth are also overrepresented in JLS. Drawing on one year of juvenile court records merged with sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression (SOGIE) information (n = 1,208), we examined system processing outcomes across intersectional identities. Findings indicate that youth with multiple marginalized identities may receive harsher treatment than non-marginalized youth via mental health needs and referrals as well as diversion and adjudication outcomes. Implications for future research, practice, and policy with marginalized youth in the JLS will be discussed.

Authors

• Valerie Anderson, University of Cincinnati

• Laur Rubino, University of Cincinnati