Jóvenes en prisión: explorando su trayectoria entre protección y justicia juvenil

Abstract

This research aims to contribute to the exploration and understanding of the characteristics of young people in prison, between 18 and 30 years old, who have previously been involved in the child welfare and juvenile justice systems. Based on a research project developed in the prisons of the Autonomous Community of Andalusia, we analyze some socio-demographic characteristics and risk factors for crime and victimization during childhood and adolescence of two identified profiles: crossover youths and youths who had only prior judicial measures. It is observed that in the first profile there is a significant presence of foreign youths who arrived in the country as unaccompanied minors. In general, both groups report a significant history of property-related offenses and recidivism in prison, as well as victimization experiences, substance use and low level of education. These findings invite reflection on the importance of understanding their life experiences to adapt institutional responses from a comprehensive preventive approach that addresses factors that may ultimately lead to imprisonment.

Key words: prison, child welfare system, crossover youth, risk factors, foreigners.