The Role of Sexual Abuse in Trauma Symptoms,Delinquent and Suicidal Behaviors,and Criminal Justice Outcomes Among Females in a Juvenile Justice Diversion Program

Abstract

Female juvenile justice–involved (JJI) youth experience more sexual abuse (SA) than their non-JJI counterparts or their male JJI counterparts. This study examines SA’s role among JJI females (N = 1,307) in a behavioral health diversion program. Results indicate that SA increases the risk of psychological trauma, particularly posttraumatic stress and depression. SA also increases the odds of suicidal behavior, running away, and substance use. SA females have the same odds of successfully completing behavioral health diversion and being charged with any offense or misdemeanor after termination as non-SA females. Implications of research and future directions are discussed.

Keywords

sexual abuse juvenile justice psychological trauma recidivism

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