Trauma Among Girls in the Juvenile Justice System

• NCJ Number: 243621
• Author(s): Marianne Hennessey, M.S., L.P.C.; Julian D. Ford, Ph.D.; Karen Mahoney, M.A.; Susan J. Ko, Ph.D.; Christine B. Siegfried, M.S.W.
• Date Published: 2004
• Length: 8 pages
• Sponsoring Agency: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Admin (SAMHSA)
• Corporate Author: National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN)
• Sale Source: National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN)
• Publication Format: Document; Document (Online)
• Publication Type: Research (Applied/Empirical); Report (Study/Research); Report (Grant Sponsored); Issue Overview
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

Since this review of data and research show the prevalence of trauma among girls in the juvenile justice system, this report recommends trauma-sensitive and gender-specific programming and treatment models in order to address trauma-specific needs and prevent re-traumatization of girls in the juvenile justice system.

Abstract

Positive and affirming relationships with others is a central feature of social and psychological development in girls. Likewise, much of the trauma girls face is interpersonal and relational. Juvenile justice programs must help girls address complex and stressful relationships with family members, boyfriends, and children. Programs for delinquent girls should help them understand and negotiate gender and family roles, determine appropriate boundaries in relationships, and avoid conflict and violence in dating relationships. Programs should also guide girls in learning constructive strategies for coping with frustration, stress, and conflict, particularly when the maladaptive use of drugs, alcohol, and sex is involved. In order to tailor programming and treatment to the particular trauma needs of girls in the juvenile justice system reliable and valid risk assessment must be used to identify physical and sexual victimization, HIV/AIDS, pregnancy, and drug and alcohol dependency. In addition, the disproportionate representation of delinquent girls from minority ethno-cultural groups requires culturally specific services. 21 references