Female offending is not the norm; they represent the exception in almost every Criminal Justice Agency. The system is designed to deal with men and, policy and practice is frequently based on theories of male offending. This essay will seek to demonstrate that gender bias in the Criminal Justice System (CJS) exists. However it neither results solely in more severe or more lenient treatment as there are many variables affecting the treatment of women, of greatest significance being offence, class and race. I will seek to discuss issues of bias and then relate this to Probation Practice throughout the essay. This essay cannot be comprehensive, therefore I have chosen to focus upon the sentencing process and practice issues, relating issues raised to other areas within the CJS as many of my initial conclusions regarding sentencing are applicable to other areas. Criminology needs to understand female offending and treatment only in doing so can we effectively address it and avoid perpetuating the bias and consequently the problem.
Disagreement exists as to whether women benefit or suffer from bias in sentencing decisions. However there is sufficient evidence to draw the conclusion that bias exists in relation t
Women from minority ethnic groups made up 25% of the female prison population in June 1999 and around 50% of these women were foreign nationals. Minority ethnic groups made up 6% of the UK population (Governments Strategy for Women Offenders). A high proportion of black women, particularly from certain parts of Africa, are imprisoned for their involvement in Drugs offences and fit the stereotype of a "mule" (M. Teague: Tutorial notes from May and Vass 1997). The presence of high numbers of foreign nations in the prison system carries with it unique implications for Probation practice. It requires cultural awareness, a sensitivity to different needs and willingness to work through interpreters.
Smith D "The Contribution of Feminist Criminology", in Criminology for Social Work. Forgot to note date and publisher.
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