NCJ Number
215826
Date Published
July 2006
Length
79 pages
Annotation
This research describes the risks and needs of girls in Florida's juvenile justice system and identifies the essential services and policy initiatives required to respond to their needs.
Abstract
Based on the information collected from focus groups with staff in discussions of gaps in services, there is apparently a mismatch between the level of available treatment services and the identified treatment needs of girls in residential programs. Common major factors were identified as "pathways" into the system related to the delinquent behavior of girls. These include emotional factors, family issues and conflict, and substance abuse. The girls' level of needs did not differ by program level. The findings show that an essential set of services should be available to girls at all program levels. The most pressing intervention needs include specialized mental health services; substance abuse treatment; family focused services; specialized medical care; alternative, education, and vocational services; and transitional placements and services for girls. The recommendations are divided into those relevant for immediate, short-term, and long-term change in Florida's response to girls in its juvenile justice system. The research sample consisted of 319 girls in the Florida juvenile justice system: 244 girls from 13 residential programs and 75 girls from 6 nonresidential programs. The National Council on Crime and Delinquency's Juvenile Assessment and Intervention System's interview instrument was used to learn more about girls in the system at the aggregate level, including their intervention needs and risk level of offending. Supervision strategies for working with them were suggested. Focus groups were conducted with staff to better understand the gaps in services and barriers to implementation. 7 tables, 6 figures, 24 references, and 5 appendixes with supplementary data and information