Indigenous Youth Crime: An International Perspective

Abstract

This chapter applies a systematic and comprehensive approach for identifying, reviewing, and commenting on the available literature regarding Indigenous youth crime across four countries (Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United States). To accomplish this, it begins with an examination of systematic reviews on the issue of Indigenous youth crime. The chapter presents an overview of the current context relating to Indigenous youth crime for each of the countries, including statistics relating to the issue as well as identifying any important jurisdictional factors (e.g., distinct Indigenous judicial systems, constitutional issues). It summarizes the specific studies that have been conducted on Indigenous youth crime and identifies a set of systemic and individual factors that have been empirically linked to this issue. Following this, the chapter presents an overview of the various interventions aimed at meeting the challenges related to this issue in terms of system-based interventions (i.e., those aimed at addressing political, cultural, and social policies and practices) as well as targeted frontline interventions. Finally, the chapter identifies a number of significant gaps in the scientific study of Indigenous youth crime and provides suggestions for future research and intervention. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved)