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Barnert ES. Childhood Behind Bars: Children and the US Juvenile Legal System. Adv Pediatr 2024; 71:29-40. [PMID: 38944487 DOI: 10.1016/j.yapd.2024.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/01/2024]
Abstract
This article examines the epidemiology of the US juvenile legal system, which disproportionately impacts youth with multiple marginalized identities and exacerbates health inequities. Policy changes that can improve the treatment of children who display disruptive behavior are highlighted, so as to lay out a path forward for supporting children and enhancing health equity while bolstering public safety. Finally, this article concludes that the systemic racism pervasive in the juvenile legal system signals an important role for pediatrics to advance racial equity and transform our approach to childhood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth S Barnert
- Department of Pediatrics, UCLA, 10955 LeConte Avenue MDCC 12-476, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
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Matković E, Borić I, Ćosić A, Sočo A. Challenging the status quo: gender norms in Croatian juvenile correctional settings. FRONTIERS IN SOCIOLOGY 2024; 9:1411894. [PMID: 38988645 PMCID: PMC11234850 DOI: 10.3389/fsoc.2024.1411894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
Gender norms and issues related to gender are highly relevant when it comes to treatment of juveniles in correctional institutions, especially related to their risky behavior and personal characteristics (such as personality traits, intellectual capability, culture, ethnicity etc.). Furthermore, many juveniles in correctional institutions are exposed to violence and are also perpetrators of violent criminal acts. This paper will give an overview of national policies related to gender-sensitive treatment in Croatia as a background to research aimed to describe the reflection of gender issues and gender norms in practical work with juveniles in Croatian correctional institutions. The research is based on qualitative approach and includes focus groups with youth workers from various organizations who implemented programs for youth in correctional institutions. Preliminary results show that gender and gender norms are not specifically targeted in treatment programs within the institutions. The initiative to implement gender issues mainly comes from organizations from the civil sector through different workshops. Juveniles express relatively rigid gender norms that are supported by rigid organization of correctional institutions especially for males. This research shows the importance of clearer focus to gender-sensitive programing and gender sensitive treatment programs that will strongly be integrated in everyday practice of correctional institutions. The precondition for this is largely connected to deconstructing stereotypes about gender and gender norms both for youth and professionals working with them.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ivana Borić
- Department of Behavioural Disorders, Faculty of Education and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Andrea Ćosić
- Department of Behavioural Disorders, Faculty of Education and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
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Hull SJ, Massie JS, Holt SL, Bowleg L. Intersectionality Policymaking Toolkit: Key Principles for an Intersectionality-Informed Policymaking Process to Serve Diverse Women, Children, and Families. Health Promot Pract 2023; 24:623-635. [PMID: 36960782 PMCID: PMC10445436 DOI: 10.1177/15248399231160447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/25/2023]
Abstract
Health and economic inequities among U.S. racial/ethnic minority women and children are staggering. These inequities underscore a dire need for intersectionality-informed, social-justice-oriented maternal and child (MCH) policies and programs for U.S. women and children. In response, we developed the "Intersectionality Policymaking Toolkit: Key Principles for an Intersectionality Informed Policymaking Process to Serve Diverse Women, Children and Families" to assist U.S. policymakers/aides, practitioners, and other stakeholders in developing more equitable MCH policies/programs. This article describes the Toolkit development process and initial assessments of acceptability and feasibility for use in MCH policymaking. Between 2018 and 2021, we utilized the process that the World Health Organization (WHO) used to develop its WHO Surgical Safety Checklist to develop the content (e.g., case studies) and format (i.e., structure), make strategic decisions (e.g., core items, primary audiences, timing of utilization), test concepts, and receive feedback. We convened a 2-day planning meeting with experts (n = 8) in intersectionality, policymaking, and MCH to draft the Toolkit. Next, we convened half-day workshops with policymaking and program leadership and staff in Washington, DC, New Orleans, LA, and Santa Fe, NM, to refine the Toolkit (n = 37). Then we conducted an initial assessment of the Toolkits' acceptability and feasibility using surveys (n = 21), followed by focus groups (n = 7). The resulting Toolkit distills Critical Race Theory's and intersectionality's most critical elements into a user-friendly modality to promote and enhance equitable MCH policies and programs for diverse U.S. women and families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shawnika J. Hull
- Corresponding Author: Department of Communication, Rutgers University, 4 Huntington St. New Brunswick, NJ, 08901.
| | | | | | - Lisa Bowleg
- Department of Psychology, The George Washington University
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Rosen B, Dauria E, Shumway M, Smith JD, Koinis-Mitchell D, Tolou-Shams M. Association of pregnancy attitudes and intentions with sexual activity and psychiatric symptoms in justice-involved youth. CHILDREN AND YOUTH SERVICES REVIEW 2022; 138:106510. [PMID: 38107676 PMCID: PMC10723635 DOI: 10.1016/j.childyouth.2022.106510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Context With over one-third of detained girls experiencing teenage pregnancy, it is critical that the juvenile justice system better addresses the sexual and reproductive health (SRH) needs of youth. Although pregnancy attitudes and intentions (PAI) are associated with pregnancy outcomes among the general adolescent population, this relationship has not been examined among justice-involved youth. Methods Participants were drawn from a longitudinal study characterizing trajectories of behavioral and reproductive health and recidivism among newly justice-involved youth in a Northeast family court. Baseline and four-month follow-up data from 288 justice-involved youth (JIY) were analyzed to characterize PAI; examine associations between pregnancy intentions and unprotected sexual activity (i.e., no hormonal, intrauterine, or barrier protection against pregnancy); and explore the relationship between pregnancy intentions and psychiatric symptoms. Results At baseline, 39% of JIY youth were sexually active, 44% of these youth reported inconsistent condom use and 14% had not used birth control at last sexual intercourse. Nearly half of sexually active youth reported some intent around pregnancy and those with any pregnancy intentions were more likely to report depression, low self-esteem, substance use, and trauma history. Pregnancy intentions at baseline predicted higher rates of unprotected sexual activity at four months (OR: 16.9, CI = 2.48-115.7). Conclusions This study highlights the importance of developing and implementing more comprehensive SRH assessments and brief interventions for youth entering the justice system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brooke Rosen
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, 401 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94143, United States
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, 1959 NE Pacific Street, Box 356560, Seattle, WA 98195, United States
| | - Emily Dauria
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, 401 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94143, United States
- Department of Community and Behavioral Health Sciences, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, United States
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, 1001 Potrero Avenue, Building 5, Room 7M18, San Francisco, CA, 94110, United States
| | - Martha Shumway
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, 401 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94143, United States
| | - Jaime Dumoit Smith
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, 401 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94143, United States
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, 1001 Potrero Avenue, Building 20, Suite 2100, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States
| | - Daphne Koinis-Mitchell
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Rhode Island Hospital Department of Psychiatry, 1 Hoppin St. Coro West, 2nd Floor, Providence, RI 02903, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Marina Tolou-Shams
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, 401 Parnassus Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94143, United States
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, 1001 Potrero Avenue, Building 5, Room 7M18, San Francisco, CA, 94110, United States
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Joudeh L, Harris OO, Johnstone E, Heavner-Sullivan S, Propst SK. "Little Red Flags": Barriers to Accessing Health Care as a Sexual or Gender Minority Individual in the Rural Southern United States-A Qualitative Intersectional Approach. J Assoc Nurses AIDS Care 2021; 32:467-480. [PMID: 33935190 PMCID: PMC8238829 DOI: 10.1097/jnc.0000000000000271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Sexual and gender minorities (SGMs) experience unique challenges when accessing sexuality and gender-affirming, safe health care services in the rural, southern United States. An identified gap in the literature is an intersectional, community-based approach to assessing the obstacles SGM individuals with intersecting identities experience when navigating comprehensive health services in rural southern communities in the United States; therefore, the present study used qualitative inquiry with an intersectional lens to describe these obstacles. The authors analyzed qualitative data from in-depth, semi-structured individual interviews with SGM individuals (N = 12). Common themes emerged that highlighted the compounding effects of the sociopolitical climate of the geographical area, religious attitudes toward SGMs, and the experience of racism. Findings of this study can inform health professions' academic curriculum, provider and support staff training, and implementation of policy that focuses on creating a diverse and inclusive health care delivery experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Layla Joudeh
- Layla Joudeh, BA, is a Medical Degree Candidate, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Orlando O. Harris, PhD, RN, MPH, FNP, is an Assistant Professor, Department of Community Health Systems, School of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, and Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Ethan Johnstone, LMSW, is the Lead Community Builder, Pride Link, Greenville, South Carolina, USA
- Smith Heavner-Sullivan, MS, RN, is a PhD Candidate, Department of Public Health Sciences, Clemson University and Director of the Center of Excellence in LGBTQ Health and Wellness, Prisma Health, Greenville, South Carolina, USA
- Shantara K. Propst, MS, is an Osteopathic Medicine Degree Candidate, Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine-Carolinas, Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA
| | - Orlando O Harris
- Layla Joudeh, BA, is a Medical Degree Candidate, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Orlando O. Harris, PhD, RN, MPH, FNP, is an Assistant Professor, Department of Community Health Systems, School of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, and Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Ethan Johnstone, LMSW, is the Lead Community Builder, Pride Link, Greenville, South Carolina, USA
- Smith Heavner-Sullivan, MS, RN, is a PhD Candidate, Department of Public Health Sciences, Clemson University and Director of the Center of Excellence in LGBTQ Health and Wellness, Prisma Health, Greenville, South Carolina, USA
- Shantara K. Propst, MS, is an Osteopathic Medicine Degree Candidate, Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine-Carolinas, Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA
| | - Ethan Johnstone
- Layla Joudeh, BA, is a Medical Degree Candidate, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Orlando O. Harris, PhD, RN, MPH, FNP, is an Assistant Professor, Department of Community Health Systems, School of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, and Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Ethan Johnstone, LMSW, is the Lead Community Builder, Pride Link, Greenville, South Carolina, USA
- Smith Heavner-Sullivan, MS, RN, is a PhD Candidate, Department of Public Health Sciences, Clemson University and Director of the Center of Excellence in LGBTQ Health and Wellness, Prisma Health, Greenville, South Carolina, USA
- Shantara K. Propst, MS, is an Osteopathic Medicine Degree Candidate, Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine-Carolinas, Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA
| | - Smith Heavner-Sullivan
- Layla Joudeh, BA, is a Medical Degree Candidate, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Orlando O. Harris, PhD, RN, MPH, FNP, is an Assistant Professor, Department of Community Health Systems, School of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, and Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Ethan Johnstone, LMSW, is the Lead Community Builder, Pride Link, Greenville, South Carolina, USA
- Smith Heavner-Sullivan, MS, RN, is a PhD Candidate, Department of Public Health Sciences, Clemson University and Director of the Center of Excellence in LGBTQ Health and Wellness, Prisma Health, Greenville, South Carolina, USA
- Shantara K. Propst, MS, is an Osteopathic Medicine Degree Candidate, Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine-Carolinas, Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA
| | - Shantara K Propst
- Layla Joudeh, BA, is a Medical Degree Candidate, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Orlando O. Harris, PhD, RN, MPH, FNP, is an Assistant Professor, Department of Community Health Systems, School of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, and Center for AIDS Prevention Studies, School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Ethan Johnstone, LMSW, is the Lead Community Builder, Pride Link, Greenville, South Carolina, USA
- Smith Heavner-Sullivan, MS, RN, is a PhD Candidate, Department of Public Health Sciences, Clemson University and Director of the Center of Excellence in LGBTQ Health and Wellness, Prisma Health, Greenville, South Carolina, USA
- Shantara K. Propst, MS, is an Osteopathic Medicine Degree Candidate, Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine-Carolinas, Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA
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Karnik NS, Cortese S, Njoroge WFM, Drury SS, Frazier JA, McCauley E, Henderson SW, White T, Althoff RR, Novins DK. Editorial: Analyzing Treatment and Prescribing in Large Administrative Datasets With a Lens on Equity. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2021; 60:818-820. [PMID: 33359220 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaac.2020.12.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
In this issue of the Journal, Bushnell and colleagues1 present findings from their analysis of a commercial insurance administrative dataset, examining the ways that antipsychotics are used in young children (aged 2-7 years) in the United States. From 2009 to 2017, they find that the use of antipsychotics decreased and there was a shift toward use of medications in alignment with evidence-based standards. The most common conditions for use of antipsychotics included pervasive developmental disorders, externalizing disorders, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. More troubling were the findings that less than half of young children on antipsychotics had a visit with a psychiatrist, and only a third of children had evidence of a minimum dose of psychotherapy. These findings deserve attention and should be a cause for strengthening the use of existing treatment guidelines for preschool and younger children. They should also prompt enhanced advocacy to expand access to evidence-based mental health care for children that includes high-quality psychiatric assessment, treatment, and psychotherapy. The latter includes increasing the number of child and adolescent psychiatrists who focus on preschool-aged and younger children.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Samuele Cortese
- Centre for Innovation in Mental Health, Academic Unit of Psychology, Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences; Clinical and Experimental Sciences (CNS and Psychiatry), Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, United Kingdom; Solent NHS Trust, Southampton, United Kingdom; Hassenfeld Children's Hospital at NYU Langone, New York University Child Study Center; and the Division of Psychiatry and Applied Psychology, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Wanjikũ F M Njoroge
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | | | | | | | | | - Tonya White
- Erasmus University Medical Centre - Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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Ventres WB, Frankel RM. Personalizing the BioPsychoSocial Approach: "Add-Ons" and "Add-Ins" in Generalist Practice. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:716486. [PMID: 34899410 PMCID: PMC8652412 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.716486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Generalist practitioners often find interacting with patients deeply satisfying and joyful; they also experience encounters that are challenging and complex. In both cases, they must be aware of the many issues that affect the processes and outcomes of patient care. Although using the BioPsychoSocial approach is an important, time-tested framework for cultivating one's awareness of patients' presenting concerns, recent developments suggest that additional frames of reference may enhance communication and relationships with patients. In this article, we describe several additions to the BioPsychoSocial approach, considerations we call "add-ons" and "add-ins". We invite generalist practitioners and, indeed, all health care practitioners, to consider how they can improve their ongoing care of patients by personalizing these and other additions in their day-to-day work with patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- William B Ventres
- Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Richard M Frankel
- Regenstrief Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
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Barnert E, Sun A, Abrams L, Chung PJ. Reproductive health needs of recently incarcerated youth during community reentry: a systematic review. BMJ SEXUAL & REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2020; 46:161-171. [PMID: 31722933 PMCID: PMC8262509 DOI: 10.1136/bmjsrh-2019-200386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Revised: 10/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/27/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Youth involved in the juvenile justice system have high reproductive health needs and, on exiting detention, face the challenging transition of reentry. We conducted a systematic literature review to describe what is known about youths' reproductive health needs during community reentry after incarceration. METHODS We searched PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar for articles containing key words with the concepts 'child or adolescent', 'incarcerated' and 'reentry'. In the search, we defined the concept of 'reentry' as within 1 month prior to release (to include interventions involving pre-release planning) and up to 18 months after release from incarceration. RESULTS Our search yielded 2187 articles. After applying all exclusion criteria, 14 articles on reproductive health remained for extraction. The articles provided data on the following aspects of youths' reproductive health: frequency of condom use (eight articles), sexual risk behaviours other than lack of condom use (seven articles), and prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (three articles). CONCLUSIONS The literature on the reproductive health needs of youth undergoing reentry is extremely limited. Current intervention studies yield mixed but promising results and more intervention studies that address both pre-release reentry planning and the post-incarceration period are needed. Given incarcerated youths' well-documented reproductive health disparities compared with non-incarcerated adolescents, the identified gaps represent important opportunities for future research and programmatic emphasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Barnert
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Ava Sun
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Laura Abrams
- Department of Social Welfare, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Paul J Chung
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
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Barnert ES, Godoy SM, Hammond I, Kelly MA, Thompson LR, Mondal S, Bath EP. Pregnancy Outcomes Among Girls Impacted by Commercial Sexual Exploitation. Acad Pediatr 2020; 20:455-459. [PMID: 31841662 PMCID: PMC7200271 DOI: 10.1016/j.acap.2019.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2019] [Revised: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 12/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We measured pregnancy rates and pregnancy outcomes among girls with histories of commercial sexual exploitation (CSE), and then quantified the associations between the outcome of pregnancy with: a) girls' exposure to childhood adversity, and b) their behavioral health. This is the largest study of pregnancy outcomes and associated factors among girls impacted by CSE in the United States. METHODS We reviewed court files of participants in a juvenile specialty court for youth impacted by CSE, between 2012 and 2016. We collected data on pregnancy, health, and social factors. Data were updated through 2018 and descriptive statistics were calculated. Two-sample tests for equality of proportions explored associations between pregnancy with adverse childhood experiences and the girls' behavioral health profiles. RESULTS Among the 360 biological females, 31% had ever been pregnant. Of the girls ever pregnant, 18% had multiple pregnancies. Outcomes for the 130 reported pregnancies were: 76% live births; 13% therapeutic abortions; 5% miscarriages or stillbirths; and 6% of pregnancies were ongoing at case closure. Parental incarceration and histories of maternal substance abuse were both associated with pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS High pregnancy rates among girls with histories of CSE suggest the importance of applying a reproductive justice approach to deliver reproductive education, family planning services, prenatal care, and parenting support to girls impacted by CSE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth S Barnert
- Department of Pediatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Mattel Children's Hospital, Los Angeles, Calif (ES Barnert).
| | - Sarah M Godoy
- Department of Psychiatry, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, Calif (SM Godoy)
| | - Ivy Hammond
- UC Berkeley, School of Social Welfare, Berkeley, Calif (I Hammond)
| | - Mikaela A Kelly
- Department of Psychiatry, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, Calif (MA Kelly)
| | - Lindsey R Thompson
- Department of Pediatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and Mattel Children's Hospital, Los Angeles, Calif (LR Thompson)
| | - Sangeeta Mondal
- Stanford University, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, Calif (S Mondal)
| | - Eraka P Bath
- Department of Psychiatry, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, UCLA Semel Neuropsychiatric Institute, Los Angeles, Calif (EP Bath)
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Hammond I, Godoy S, Kelly M, Bath E. A transgender girl’s experience: sexual exploitation and systems involvement. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HUMAN RIGHTS IN HEALTHCARE 2020. [DOI: 10.1108/ijhrh-07-2019-0059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PurposeThe available research on specialized interventions for youth experiencing commercial sexual exploitation almost exclusively focuses on the impact and efficacy related to cisgender girls, despite the inclusion of youth who identify as transgender in these programs. This paper aims to present a case study on the experience of a transgender adolescent girl who experienced commercial sexual exploitation and provides a narrative of the multifarious challenges she faced while involved in institutional systems of care.Design/methodology/approachThis paper conducted an in-depth case review of all records on “Jade,” a white adolescent transgender girl who experienced commercial sexual exploitation, from a specialty court program in the juvenile justice system between 2012 and 2016. Her experiences throughout childhood exemplify many of the unique challenges that transgender girls and young women with histories of exploitation or trafficking may encounter within service delivery and socioecological systems. This paper applied concepts adapted from the gender minority stress theoretical model to understand how minority gender identity can shape the experiences and outcomes of the youth impacted by commercial sexual exploitation.FindingsJade’s narrative underscores the interplay of gender-based sexual violence, heteronormative structural barriers, transphobia and their intersectional impact on her experience while receiving specialized care. The intersectional hardships she experienced likely contributed to adverse biopsychosocial outcomes, including high rates of medical and behavioral health diagnoses and expectations of further rejection.Originality/valueThis paper highlights the extraordinary challenges and barriers faced by an often under-recognized and overlooked subset of the youth impacted by commercial sexual exploitation, who may receive services that do not account for their unique needs related to gender expression and identity. This paper exemplifies how internalized stigma along with expectations of further rejection and victimization have implications for clinical and multidisciplinary intervention settings. Jade’s case underscores the need for improved access to supportive services for youth with minority gender identities, including peer community-building opportunities. Finally, this paper identifies a critical gap in US legislation and social policy. This gap contributes to the structural harms faced by transgender and gender-nonconforming youth receiving services during or following experiences of commercial sexual exploitation.
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Bounds DT, Otwell CH, Melendez A, Karnik NS, Julion WA. Adapting a family intervention to reduce risk factors for sexual exploitation. Child Adolesc Psychiatry Ment Health 2020; 14:8. [PMID: 32099581 PMCID: PMC7029494 DOI: 10.1186/s13034-020-00314-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexually exploited youth are disconnected from societal tethers and need support systems, which makes them some of the most vulnerable of youth. This heightened level of vulnerability increases their risk for violence, abuse, ongoing sexual exploitation and all its sequelae. The purpose of this study was to examine an evidence-based intervention called STRIVE (support to reunite, involve and value each other) that has been a successful family re-engagement strategy with newly homeless youth. We sought to explore its contextual relevance for youth with risk factors for sexual exploitation and identify necessary adaptations to reduce risk factors for sexual exploitation. We deliberately took an intersectional approach in conducting this study. METHODS Six community-based focus groups were conducted with youth at risk for sexual exploitation and their service providers. Each group was recorded, transcribed, coded, and thematically analyzed. RESULTS Results from 29 youth and 11 providers indicate that there are unique considerations that must be taken into account while working with youth at risk for sexual exploitation to ensure effective service delivery and/or ethical research. Emergent themes included: setting the stage by building rapport and acknowledging experiences of structural violence, protect and hold which balances youth's need for advocacy/support with their caregivers' need for validation/understanding, and walking the safety tightrope by assessing risks and safety planning. DISCUSSION Focus groups are an effective methodology when working with traditionally disempowered populations particularly in gaining a range of perspectives to meet unique needs/preferences. Youth at risk for commercial sexual exploitation needs require strengths-based, individualized, multi-systemic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dawn T. Bounds
- grid.240684.c0000 0001 0705 3621Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Section of Population Behavioral Health, College of Nursing, Community, Systems, & Mental Health Nursing, Rush University Medical Center, 1645 W. Jackson Blvd. Suite 600, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Caitlin H. Otwell
- grid.240684.c0000 0001 0705 3621Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Section of Population Behavioral Health, Rush University Medical Center, 1645 W. Jackson Blvd. Suite 600, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Adrian Melendez
- grid.240684.c0000 0001 0705 3621Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Section of Population Behavioral Health, Rush University Medical Center, 1645 W. Jackson Blvd. Suite 600, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Niranjan S. Karnik
- grid.262743.60000000107058297Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Rush Medical College, Rush University, 1645 W. Jackson Blvd. Suite 600, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Wrenetha A. Julion
- grid.240684.c0000 0001 0705 3621College of Nursing, Department of Women, Children and Family Nursing, Rush University Medical Center, 600 S. Paulina St. Suite 1080, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
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Barnert E, Kelly M, Godoy S, Abrams LS, Bath E. Behavioral health treatment "Buy-in" among adolescent females with histories of commercial sexual exploitation. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2020; 100:104042. [PMID: 31227269 PMCID: PMC6920601 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2019.104042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Revised: 05/07/2019] [Accepted: 06/06/2019] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescent females with histories of commercial sexual exploitation (CSE) have high mental health and substance use treatment needs, yet little is known about their perspectives regarding behavioral health and behavioral health treatment. OBJECTIVE We sought to understand the attitudes of adolescent females with histories of CSE regarding behavioral health to identify factors influencing "buy-in" to behavioral healthcare. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING Participants included 21 adolescent females, affiliated with our partner organizations (two group homes, a service agency, and a juvenile specialty court), who reported having exchanged sex for something of value. METHODS In-depth qualitative interviews explored participants' perspectives towards behavioral health. We conducted thematic analysis to identify themes concerning behavioral health. RESULTS Participants provided insightful definitions of "mental health" that included positive and negative aspects of emotional and cognitive states (e.g. "being happy with yourself" and "not thinking suicidal"), indicating intensified mental health challenges and resilience. Substance use was viewed as a coping mechanism for childhood trauma and their exploitation. Trusted relationships with providers and navigable health systems that encourage autonomy were key to promoting "buy-in" and thus engagement in behavioral health treatment. A conceptual model emerged illustrating factors leading to treatment engagement. CONCLUSION Adolescent females with histories of CSE constitute a vulnerable population with high levels of trauma as well as unmet mental health and addiction treatment needs. The delivery of trauma-focused, behavioral healthcare centered on patient-provider trust and shared-decision making that encourages client autonomy should be prioritized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Barnert
- Department of Pediatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and Mattel Children's Hospital, UCLA Pediatrics, 2-467 MDCC, Los Angeles, CA, 90095-1752, United States.
| | - Mikaela Kelly
- Department of Psychiatry, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, 760 Westwood Plaza, Room A8-228, Los Angeles, CA, 90024, United States
| | - Sarah Godoy
- Department of Psychiatry, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, 760 Westwood Plaza, Room A8-228, Los Angeles, CA, 90024, United States
| | - Laura S Abrams
- Department of Social Welfare, UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs, 5323 Public Affairs Building Los Angeles, CA, 90095-1656, United States
| | - Eraka Bath
- Department of Psychiatry, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, 760 Westwood Plaza, Room A8-228, Los Angeles, CA, 90024, United States
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Barnert ES, Lopez N, Chung PJ. Barriers to Health Care for Latino Youths During Community Reentry After Incarceration: Los Angeles County, California, 2016-2018. Am J Public Health 2020; 110:S63-S70. [PMID: 31967868 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2019.305374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Objectives. To examine barriers to health care for Latino youths during reentry after incarceration.Methods. For this in-depth qualitative study, we conducted 69 semistructured interviews with 22 Latino youths and their parents at 1, 3, and 6 months after incarceration. We performed thematic analysis of interview transcripts, from which a preliminary conceptual model emerged describing barriers to care for Latino youths. We then conducted trajectory analyses of dyadic youth-caregiver pairs to test the conceptual model. We collected longitudinal interviews in Los Angeles County, California, from November 2016 to March 2018.Results. Beyond recognized stressors experienced by youths during reentry, most of which families related to poverty and neighborhood environment, Latino youths also experienced cultural barriers to care (i.e., self-reliance and pride, religiosity and reproductive care as taboo, preference for home remedies, language) as well as barriers to care because of undocumented status (i.e., fear of deportation, job insecurity).Conclusions. Reentry is challenging, and Latino youths face additional barriers to care during reentry related to culture and legal status, but have cultural strengths. Increased access to culturally sensitive, safety-net health care, regardless of immigration status, may reduce health inequalities for Latino youths undergoing reentry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth S Barnert
- At the time of the study, all authors were with the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) David Geffen School of Medicine and Mattel Children's Hospital at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Nathalie Lopez
- At the time of the study, all authors were with the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) David Geffen School of Medicine and Mattel Children's Hospital at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Paul J Chung
- At the time of the study, all authors were with the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) David Geffen School of Medicine and Mattel Children's Hospital at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA
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Karnik NS, Winiarski DA. Editorial: Bullying and Suicide Risk: Restructuring Prevention, Identification, and Treatment to Address a Global Mental Health Crisis. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2019; 58:851-852. [PMID: 31047990 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaac.2019.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2018] [Accepted: 04/03/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Bullying is a global phenomenon with significant mental health consequences. Although bullying prevention programs have garnered attention over the last several years, the results of these programs have been mixed, at best. As Koyanagi et al.1 highlight in this issue of the Journal, the consequences of bullying can be dire, particularly when they occur during a critical developmental period. Using the Global School-based Student Health Survey, this article reports on a sample of more than 130,000 youths aged 12 to 15 years sampled in a structured manner across 48 countries with a range of geographic representation and some socioeconomic diversity. The results of this study find that across 47 of 48 countries, children and adolescents have an average 3-fold greater risk of suicide attempt when faced with bullying. In addition, there was a dose-dependent impact of the number of days bullied to odds of suicide attempt. In recent years, rates of suicide have been steadily increasing around the globe, with suicide being the second leading cause of death among 15- to-29-year-olds in 2016.2 Koyanagi et al.'s timely article not only illustrates that suicide is a growing global health problem but also emphasizes the need to re-evaluate our existing strategies using a multisystemic approach to screening, prevention, and treating bullied youths.
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