Striving for Justice: Assessing Disparities in Juvenile Justice Involvement for Black Youth

Date of Award

5-1-2025

Degree Name

Ed.D. in Leadership for Organizations

Department

School of Education and Health Sciences

Advisor/Chair

Ricardo Garcia

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the contributing factors to the Disproportionate Minority Contact of Black youth with the Atlas County juvenile justice system. The methodology utilized a qualitative approach through a phenomenology focus to gain a greater understanding of the social realities of stakeholders engaged with court-involved youth in Atlas County. The findings confirm a lack of alternative options to adjudication and differential treatment contribute to the disparities for Black youth in Atlas County. Implications include efforts to reduce DMC must be grounded in policy and strategic planning, cultural awareness and training. Future research should involve court-engaged youth and court officials to gain an expanded perspective on contributing factors and solutions to racial and ethnic disparities.

Keywords

African Americans, Environmental Justice

Rights Statement

Copyright 2025, author.

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