Section on Children and the Law
Cardiff, South Tower/Level 3, San Diego Marriott Hotel & Marina
Children, Sex and the Law
American political and legal culture is uncomfortable with children's sexuality. While aware that sexual expression is a necessary part of human development, law often sees children as either sexless, as sexual victims, or as sexual predators. This panel suggests that legal theory needs to better incorporate the realities of childhood and teenage sexuality. Professor Drobac will discuss emerging issues that arise as more and more teens are faced with sexual harassment in the workplace. Professor Zimring will look at the disjunction between the criminal and juvenile justice systems' treatment of adolescent sexual offenders and the body of literature which suggests that teenage offenders are very different from their adult counterparts. Professor Novoa will look at the legal and social images of children presented by the Texas Department of Family and Protective Service's removal of over 400 children from a polygamous religious group, and in particular in the treatment of the girls who are themselves parents. Finally, Ms. Minter will discuss the legal issues facing lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender children who are in state custody.
Business Meeting at Program Conclusion.
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