NCJ Number
216057
Date Published
2006
Length
16 pages
Annotation
This chapter explains why the experiences and life stage of the "unyoung"--defined in this chapter as those in the stage of life in which they are beyond the norm of being able-bodied, capable of being or accepted as workers, mentally alert, and sexually active--should receive more attention as a subject of criminology, i.e., research on their victimization, criminality, and management by the criminal justice system.
Abstract
Because of their physical, mental, financial, and material limitations, and often unsafe living environments, the unyoung are vulnerable to abuse, crime, dehumanization, and violations of their civil rights. Criminology can analyze the unyoung's vulnerability to victimization, the nature and frequency of how they are victimized, and how the institutions of government and society can increase the protections and care for the unyoung. Unyoung men and women also commit crimes; and some are arrested, convicted, and sent to prison. Data on the criminality and criminal justice management of the unyoung should be examined by race, class, and gender. Little research has been done in these areas. In addressing the distinctive victimization, criminality, and criminal justice issues experienced by the unyoung, criminology has a special role to play, but this role must also be part of an interdisciplinary enterprise that involves scholars from the other social sciences, many of whom have been pioneering researchers and advocates in this field. This chapter also summarizes the other chapters in this book. 3 notes and 26 references