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date: 11 February 2025

Disproportionality and Disparitieslocked

Disproportionality and Disparitieslocked

  • Rowena Fong, Rowena FongUniversity of Texas at Austin
  • Ruth G. McRoyRuth G. McRoyBoston College
  • , and Alan DettlaffAlan DettlaffUniversity of Illinois at Chicago

Summary

Racial disproportionality and disparities are problems affecting children and families of color in the child welfare, juvenile justice, education, mental-health, and health-care systems. The term “disproportionality” refers to the ratio between the percentage of persons in a particular racial or ethnic group at a particular decision point or experiencing an event (maltreatment, incarceration, school dropouts) compared to the percentage of the same racial or ethnic group in the overall population. This ratio could suggest underrepresentation, proportional representation, or overrepresentation of a population experiencing a particular phenomenon. The term “disparity” refers to “unequal treatment or outcomes for different groups in the same circumstance or at the same decision point.” A close examination of disproportionality and disparities brings attention to differences in outcomes, often by racial group, and by social service systems. It is necessary to examine the reasons for these differences in outcomes and to be sure that culturally competent practices are upheld.

Subjects

  • Poverty
  • Race, Ethnicity, and Culture
  • Social Justice and Human Rights

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