Which of the following is NOT a factor contributing to Disproportionate Minority Contact (DMC)?

Disproportionate Minority Contact (DMC) refers to the overrepresentation of minority youth in the juvenile justice system compared to their representation in the general population. Understanding the factors that contribute to DMC is crucial for addressing and reducing these disparities.

The selection of economic prosperity as not contributing to DMC is accurate because, generally, economic prosperity is associated with increased resources, opportunities, and stability for communities. Higher economic prosperity can lead to lower crime rates and better access to educational and social services, which can mitigate the factors that lead to juvenile delinquency. In contrast, the other factors listed—justice by geography, seasonal mobility, and institutional effects—are all related to systemic issues that can exacerbate disparities in how minority youth interact with the juvenile justice system.

Justice by geography refers to how different regions have varying enforcement practices and access to legal resources, potentially leading to differential treatment based on location. Seasonal mobility involves communities with fluctuating populations that may experience different degrees of engagement with the juvenile justice system. Institutional effects highlight the impact of policies and institutional practices that may disproportionately target minority youth.

Recognizing economic prosperity as a non-contributory factor highlights the importance of socioeconomic stability in promoting equity within the juvenile justice system.