NCJ Number
137391
Date Published
1982
Length
86 pages
Annotation
This study sought to analyze available data on young women in Wisconsin's juvenile justice system and to develop a profile of the characteristics and experiences of these females.
Abstract
Research was conducted between June 1980 and June 1981. The young women interviewed were involved in the network of juvenile justice services, and most were able to define their unmet needs and offer opinions about what they felt might help them. Profile development was based on a sample of 192 young women who completed written questionnaires. Study findings revealed that victimization was common among the young women and that serious problems existed with regard to needed or helpful services. Most females had been subjected to physical abuse, 32 percent had been sexually abused, and 50 percent had been sexually assaulted. Severe depression and suicide attempts were reported by 58 percent. Young women experienced numerous problems in school, were confronted with serious problems when they tried to cope with their situations by running away, and most had been placed outside their homes. It was determined that services for young men and women involved in Wisconsin's juvenile justice system are generally not well organized, planned, or coordinated and are not visible to the public. It was also found that young women appear to be treated differentially. Nineteen recommendations resulting from the study findings to improve services for young women in Wisconsin are offered. 38 tables