NCJ Number
210109
Journal
Journal of Sociology and Social Welfare Volume: 27 Issue: 3 Dated: September 2000 Pages: 63-74
Date Published
September 2000
Length
12 pages
Annotation
This study examined the relationship between child maltreatment and future offending from the viewpoint of former clients of the child welfare and juvenile justice systems.
Abstract
The child welfare system has an obligation to provide a safe alternative for abused and neglected children to grow and develop. However, sometimes these children end up in the juvenile justice system for committing illegal acts. This study explored the relationship between child welfare and juvenile justice services and later adult imprisonment. The study was based on the impressions of former clients of these service systems. The study utilized a qualitative approach relying on life history interviews with former clients and their experiences with services. The individuals placed as child welfare cases appeared to be holding the system responsible for its dismal performance. In some cases, they attributed their imprisonment to poor treatment, and a violation of a commitment made by the system to care for them when they were young children. However, those placed in the system for their delinquent behavior were more likely to assume personal responsibility for their imprisonment, a retribution for their illegal behavior. There was evidence showing a different perspective on future adult imprisonment for those placed out of the home into the child welfare system and those placed in the juvenile justice system as delinquents. References