Study of Women and Gender 211 - Girls in the System: Gender, Youth and Justice

This interdisciplinary course will consider the issue of gender, race, sexuality, and class in the juvenile justice system. Drawing on gender and sexuality studies, criminal justice, and sociological literature, social critiques, policy papers, case law, documentary film, personal narratives, and fiction, we will critically examine the history of the juvenile justice system; what it means to be in “the system”; the role of “justice” in the juvenile system; and review some of the major issues faced by the youth who are subject to this system. In addition, we will consider the role of youth action and resistance against the system. (E)