Understanding the causes of disproportionate minority contact: Results of focus group discussions

Using a qualitative methods approach, this study explored the causes of disproportionate minority contact (DMC) from the clientele perspective. The data were collected via focus group discussions and in-depth interviews with the stakeholders, to examine the causes of disproportionate minority contact and determine the needs of the community. The results revealed that the causes and mechanisms of DMC were multi-faceted and complex. These causes could be classified into six categories: system, social, family/parental, educational, individual, and economic factors. Each one of these categories played a significant role in contributing to the final outcome of DMC. A significant theme that emerged from the results drew attention to the fact that in order to bring about any change and reduce DMC, all sectors of the society—law enforcement system, juvenile justice system, families, neighborhoods, and parents needed to work together and take greater responsibilities in assuring that juveniles stay out of trouble. The results also underscored that educating the communities on the existing resources for children and families would prove advantageous in reducing DMC.