NCJ Number
170892
Journal
Prison Journal Volume: 77 Issue: 4 Dated: (December 1997) Pages: 381-404
Date Published
1997
Length
24 pages
Annotation
Focus groups were conducted across Ohio in 1996 to better understand experiences of female juvenile delinquents before and during institutionalization.
Abstract
Six focus groups for 58 delinquent girls and five focus groups for 42 professionals were conducted. Focus groups for delinquent girls ranged in size from 7 to 11 members, and ages ranged from 13 to 20 years. Placements included group homes, probation, detention, house arrest, and diversion. Focus group participants were contacted by juvenile justice system workers, and focus group sites were spread across Ohio to account for major cities, rural areas, and different State regions. Findings revealed delinquent girls varied in their experiences and opinions. Overriding themes, however, included feelings of being disrespected, abusive and sexist backgrounds, and beliefs the juvenile justice system was sexist. Professionals portrayed greater diversity in their responses than delinquent girls. Some professionals desperately wanted to help delinquent girls, while other professionals indicated a strong preference for working with delinquent boys. Policy implications of the findings are discussed, and recommendations on how to improve services for delinquent girls are offered. 67 references and 1 note