Assessing the Mental Health Status of Youth in Juvenile Justice Settings

Youth in the juvenile justice system are at high risk for mental health problems that may have contributed to their criminal behavior and that are likely to interfere with rehabilitation (Loeber et al., 1998; Lynam, 1996). Emotional impairment due to an untreated mental disorder may contribute to an adverse reaction to confinement, which in turn may result in a poor adjustment during incarceration. Poor adjustment can have a negative impact on behavior, discipline, and on a youth's ability to participate in available program components designed to address mental health, emotional, physical, and academic needs. Together, all of these factors may increase the risk for recidivism.