Emotional and Behavioral Problems of 13-to-18-Year-Old Incarcerated Female First-Time Offenders and Recidivists

Abstract

This exploratory study in Pierce County, Washington, compared emotional and behavioral problems of 13- to 18-year-old incarcerated female first-time offenders (n = 38) and recidivists (n = 78) using the Massachusetts Youth Screening Inventory, Version Two (MAYSI-2) and demographic data. The study found that adolescent female recidivists had more emotional and behavioral problems, more unstable lifestyles, and less stable family situations.

Keywords

recidivism emotional and behavioral problems juvenile offender substance use

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