Independent Lens Season 7 Episode 12 Girl Trouble

Girl Trouble, the twelfth episode of the seventh season of Independent Lens, tells the story of three teenage girls as they navigate their difficult lives in the juvenile justice system. Directed by Lexi Leban and Lidia Szajko, the episode follows the girls as they struggle with addiction, abuse, and trauma while also trying to overcome the challenges of being a young woman in the justice system.

The first girl we meet is 16-year-old Shayla, who has been in and out of detention centers since she was 12 years old. Shayla is addicted to drugs and has a history of physical and sexual abuse. Despite these challenges, Shayla is a bright and talented young woman who dreams of becoming a nurse. In the episode, we see Shayla working to overcome her addiction and build a better life for herself.

The second girl we meet is 17-year-old Shangra, who was sent to a juvenile detention center after getting into a fight with her mother's boyfriend. Shangra has a history of emotional abuse and has struggled with mental health issues since she was a child. In the episode, we see Shangra working with a therapist to deal with her trauma and learn how to communicate her feelings in a healthy way.

The third girl we meet is 16-year-old Teren, who was sent to a juvenile detention center after getting into a fight with a group of girls at school. Teren has a history of anger issues and has struggled with violence in the past. In the episode, we see Teren working to control her temper and learn how to deal with conflicts in a nonviolent way.

Throughout the episode, we see the girls struggle with the challenges of being a young woman in the justice system. They face discrimination and harassment from staff and other inmates, and they also have to deal with the social pressures and expectations placed on them by society. Despite these challenges, the girls are strong and resilient, and they are determined to create better lives for themselves.

Girl Trouble is a powerful and moving episode that sheds light on the experiences of young women in the juvenile justice system. Through the stories of Shayla, Shangra, and Teren, the episode shows us how addiction, abuse, and trauma can affect young women, and it also highlights the resilience and strength that these young women possess. Overall, Girl Trouble is a must-watch for anyone interested in social justice, mental health, and the experiences of young women in the justice system.