Medium
Topic
- Child Sexual Abuse
- Incarcerated Survivors
This issue of the Digest focuses on research about children and teens that have come into contact with the criminal justice system because they are victims of crime. We know that one in four girls and one in six boys are sexually abused before the age of 18. When these crimes are reported, those individuals typically become involved with the criminal justice system.
As advocates, we recognize that the justice system can be complex, confusing, and often unpredictable. These concerns are particularly relevant for our already vulnerable children and teen survivors. One of our roles is to help these survivors understand the system and provide support as they move through it, including advocating on their behalf with other professionals. We know how important that role is, and how necessary it is to have accurate, up-to-date resources and information to assist us in performing it.
We hope this issue of the Digest, and the information provided for further reading in the References & Resources section, will help you in your work with child and teen survivors involved with the criminal justice system.