Girls, Youth Justice and the Regulation of Sexualities

Girls, Youth Justice, and the Regulation of Sexualities shows historically and contemporarily the complexities in responding to girls' sexualities (bodies, behavior, and identities) in the juvenile justice system. It opens with a comparative-historical examination of such treatment. The book then moves to in-depth interviews with youth justice professionals and system-impacted girls in different facilities and jurisdictions throughout the Western United States. By interviewing both decision-makers as well as system-impacted girls, Girls, Youth Justice, and the Regulation of Sexualities unpacks multiple perspectives on the procedures and policies used in constructing and controlling girls' sexualities. The book ends with policy recommendations and current reform efforts. 

Lisa Pasko is Associate Professor of Sociology and Criminology and affiliated faculty in the Gender and Women's Studies Program at the University of Denver. Her research examines the intersectionality of race, gender, and sexualities in the lives of system-impacted girls.