British Asian Girls, Crime and Youth Justice

This article provides an understanding of the role of honour (izzat) and shame (sharam) in the lives of British Asian girls. It indicates key facets embedded in izzat and sharam that determine and shape the experience of punishment for Asian criminal girls in Britain. In addition, the article provides an insight into why, as a consequence of izzat and sharam, Asian girls are especially invisible as offenders in the youth justice system. Finally, an understanding of izzat and sharam highlights the limitations of using restorative justice practices with Asian young offenders.