Pre-Dispositional Juvenile Detention: An Analysis of Race, Gender and Intersectionality

• NCJ Number: 242750
• Journal: Journal of Crime and Justice Volume: 36 Issue: 1 Dated: March 2013 Pages: 67-86
• Author(s): Scott R. Maggard; Jennifer L. Higgins; Allison T. Chappell
• Date Published: March 2013
• Length: 20 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study investigated the impact of race and gender on the likelihood of receiving pre-dispositional secure detention, release, or a detention alternative.

Abstract

The current study investigated the impact of race and gender on the likelihood of receiving pre-dispositional secure detention, release, or a detention alternative with data from one juvenile court in Virginia. Guided by intersectionality theory, the research also analyzed the joint impact of being nonwhite and female on the pre-dispositional detention outcome. Findings indicate that race was not a significant predictor of the detention decision, but females were treated with more leniency compared to males. The interaction of race and gender was not found to significantly predict the detention decision. Relevant policy implications are discussed as well as limitations and directions for future research. Abstract published by arrangement with Taylor and Francis.