Multiple Pathways to Juvenile Recidivism: Examining Parental Drug and Mental Health Problems, and Markers of Neuropsychological Deficits Among Serious Juvenile Offenders

Abstract

The current study examines multiple pathways to antisocial behavior involving neurobiologically based measures and indicators of executive functioning in the interest of informing treatment and intervention services for the deepest end juvenile justice placements. Specifically, using a statewide, multiyear sample of over 11,000 male juvenile offenders completing residential commitment placements, we employ structural equation modeling (SEM) to examine whether parental drug, alcohol, and mental health problems have a direct effect on neurocognitive deficits (as measured by formal Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder [ADHD], or formal Conduct Disorder [CD] diagnoses) and temperamental deficits (as measured by effortful control and negative emotionality), which in turn are examined for their direct effects on recidivism. Results show that parental problems were associated with an increased likelihood of formal ADHD diagnosis as well increased negative emotionality among youth. Furthermore, ADHD and temperamental deficits (both effortful control and negative emotionality) were significantly related to continued offending. These findings may be helpful in treatment planning, targeting of intervention, and discussions of primary and secondary prevention efforts.

Applying Item Response Theory Analysis to the SAVRY in Justice-Involved Youth

“…In an early study, Teplin et al (2002) observed that the prevalence rates of ADHD were similar between Black, White, and Hispanic JIY. Baglivio et al (2017), however, reported that Black and Hispanic JIY were less likely to have a history of ADHD. Black children and children of other racial makeups diagnosed with ADHD were more likely than White children (Soltis et al, 2017).…”

Towards more accurate classification of risk of arrest among offenders on community supervision: An application of machine learning versus logistic regression

“…Prior studies examining substance use disorders using the NSDUH measures have shown acceptable reliability and validity (Fearn et al., 2016; Grucza et al., 2007; Jordan et al., 2008). Mental health and personality characteristics Depression, risk propensity and mental health treatment history were used in our study based on their association with justice system involvement (Baglivio et al., 2017; Vaughn et al., 2012, 2015). Depression and prior treatment were each rated dichotomously as yes/no.…”

“…Mental health and personality characteristics Depression, risk propensity and mental health treatment history were used in our study based on their association with justice system involvement (Baglivio et al., 2017; Vaughn et al., 2012, 2015). Depression and prior treatment were each rated dichotomously as yes/no.…”

“…were used in our study based on their association with justice system involvement (Baglivio et al, 2017;Vaughn et al, 2012Vaughn et al, , 2015. Depression and prior treatment were each rated dichotomously as yes/no.…”