Race/Ethnicity and Mental Health Concerns Among Justice-Involved Girls: Examination of Differences in Subscale Score and Risk Levels on the MAYSI-2

The Massachusetts Youth Screening Instrument 2 (MAYSI-2) is a widely used mental health screening tool for juveniles entering detention. Racial/ethnic differences have been previously identified, however less attention has been given to such differences among girls. Few studies have examined the relationship between subscale score and risk levels that are used to inform institutional responses. The purpose of this study was to describe racial differences in MAYSI-2 subscale scores and risk categories among girls screened in a short-term correctional facility. Data included all administrations for 1,447 girls in detention. Results indicated significant racial/ethnic differences on multiple subscales. These findings suggest the value of considering ethnic and cultural factors when conducting mental health screenings of justice-involved girls.