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Examining gender differences in service utilization among children: nature, nurture or social network?
- Authors:
- MASCHI Tina, PEREZ Rose M., GIBSON Sandy
- Journal article citation:
- Child and Adolescent Social Work Journal, 27(3), June 2010, pp.177-191.
- Publisher:
- Springer
This study examines gender differences in the service referral and service utilization patterns among children through the lens of biological, social construction, and social networking perspectives. A secondary analysis of county wide data was used that consisted of a sample of 1,408 children aged 1–11 and data from the Adolescent Information Form (AIF) for the source of referral, contributing factors for referral, and service use histories across multiple sectors of care, such as child welfare, social service, mental health, and juvenile justice. Descriptive analyses revealed significant gender differences in the source of referral, and factors contributing to referral and service utilization among the sample of children. Girls were more likely to be referred by child welfare workers for sexual abuse victimization and family problems, such as parental substance abuse and poor parenting skills. Boys were more likely to be referred by family court workers for mental health issues, including suicidal ideation and gestures, peer relations, behavioural problems, and delinquency. The implications for the development and refinement of gender sensitive practice and research are discussed.
Exploring the influence of gender on adolescents' service needs and service pathways
- Authors:
- MASCHI Tina, et al
- Journal article citation:
- Children and Youth Services Review, 31(2), February 2009, pp.257-264.
- Publisher:
- Elsevier
This American study explores gender differences in the pathways to services among adolescents. Using a sample of 2482 youth aged 12 to 17 and the Adolescent Information Form (AIF), the characteristics of youth, sources of referral, service history, and contributing factors for referral were explored. Descriptive analyses revealed significant differences in the source of service referral, reasons for referral, and prior service use between male and female. Girls were more likely to be referred by school personnel and private practitioners for family issues, depression, and mental health issues. In contrast, boys were more likely to be referred by the courts and probation for mostly problem behaviours and delinquency. These findings have important implications for services and policies impacting youth. Developing or improving gender specific assessment and intervention strategies can help close the gender divide that may block or misdirect youth from needed services.