NCJ Number
209604
Date Published
December 2004
Length
79 pages
Annotation
This study assessed what is known about the gender-relevant needs of Indiana youth and identified the availability of gender-relevant programs for the State's youth.
Abstract
The study design included an analysis of State and national data that identified gender differences in delinquency and factors that predispose youth to delinquency; focus groups that discussed the unique needs and experiences of at-risk and delinquent girls from the perspectives of girls, women involved in the juvenile justice system as girls, and the professionals who work with them; and a statewide survey that assessed the gender-relevant needs of youth from the perspective of juvenile justice professionals and youth service providers. The study concluded that delinquent girls have distinctive needs related to gender. These needs include the development of healthy, self-empowering relationships that will free them from dependence on boyfriends who may foster delinquent behavior; and the provision of gender-related health, education, and social service needs. Specific gender-related factors in delinquent behavior by girls must also be addressed. These include rebellion against parents, fighting, self-destructive behaviors, and depression. Overall, strong support for gender-relevant programming emerged as a significant study finding. The study also concluded that Indiana does not currently pursue gender-relevant program models. The recognition of the need for such programming was a product of the study, so the next step is to build upon this recognition by proceeding to develop such programs for both delinquent girls and boys. Extensive tables and figures, 38 references, and appended list of essential elements of effective gender-relevant programming for adolescent girls