According to the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, females are among America's fastest growing juvenile offender population. In recent decades, females have been entering the juvenile justice system more frequently, at younger ages, and for more violent crimes. Results from prior studies have demonstrated that two-thirds of juvenile detainees met diagnostic criteria for an alcohol, drug-related, or mental health disorder. The goal of this Media Theatre presentation is to explore the unique needs and characteristics of adolescent female offenders through the showing of Girlhood, a documentary exploring the lives and challenges faced by two adolescents detained at a Maryland girls’ detention center. The two youth profiled in the movie have mental health challenges that are addressed during the film. The presentation and discussion thereafter addresses some of the unique challenges facing girls with a history of trauma, abuse, and mental health/substance abuse issues who are detained in juvenile justice settings.

Unrated