Mapping social and gender inequalities: An analysis of art and new media work created by adolescent girls in a juvenile arbitration program

Abstract

This chapter describes the collaborative analysis of artwork created by first-time female offenders participating in a juvenile justice program. Using a feminist intersectional framework, the authors identified sociocultural obstacles and inequalities represented in the teenage girls’ art and digital media work and generated a conceptual rhizomatic map of overlapping and interconnected themes. Relationships, body image, and agency were salient themes woven throughout the artwork. Participants addressed diverse issues ranging from partner violence, peer pressure, family conflicts, sexualized social norms, bullying, and media influence to alternative concept of beauty, physical health, empowerment, emotional release, and hope for the future.