Predicting quality of life during and post detention in incarcerated juveniles

Abstract

Purpose Besides reducing recidivism, juvenile justice institutions aim to rehabilitate juvenile delinquents, in order for them to reintegrate in society. As such, improving quality of life (QoL), especially post detention, is an important treatment goal. However, research is primarily focused on recidivism as an outcome measure for juvenile detention. The aim of the current study is therefore to describe and predict QoL of detained young offenders up to 1 year after an initial assessment, and to examine whether QoL differs between youth who are still detained versus released. Methods A sample of 186 juveniles admitted to juvenile justice institutions in the Netherlands was assessed within the institution (initial assessment/T0), using psychosocial and neurobiological factors as predictors (self-control, treatment motivation, trauma, mental health problems, respiratory sinus arrhythmia). QoL (MANSA), as well as substance use (alcohol, cannabis) and daily activities (education, work) were assessed at first, second, and third follow-up (respectively 2.5 months, 4.5 months, and 12 months after T0). Results QoL increased from first to third follow-up, and was higher for individuals who were no longer detained. The model that best predicted higher QoL upon follow-up consisted of lower trauma and stronger parasympathetic nervous system reactivity. The effects of the predictors did not differ between the various follow-ups, nor between individuals who were or were not detained. Conclusion Methods incorporating trauma-sensitive focus and relaxation techniques in treatment protocols in juvenile justice institutions may be of added value in improving the general functioning of these individuals.

Adolescents’ Quality of Life and Mental Health Needs during the Initial Phase in a Closed Institution

“…A recent systematic review conducted by Hu et al (2021) confirmed the high rates of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) in detained adolescents. These findings support the importance of implementing trauma-informed care in criminal justice settings (Levenson et al, 2016) particularly in services for adolescents (Branson et al, 2017;Ezell et al, 2018;Zelechoski et al, 2021) -, both in view of enhancing their QoL (de Ruigh et al, 2019), as in view of reducing their risk of recidivism (Jaggi et al, 2021;Turner et al, 2020).…”

Using the biopsychosocial model for identifying subgroups of detained juveniles at different risk of re-offending in practice: a latent class regression analysis approach

“…From previous literature, as stated, neurobiological measures in isolation appear to have moderate value in predicting subsequent behavior. However, when these measures are examined in concert with other psychosocial factors, this can significantly increase the predictive value (see also [ 46 , 79 , 80 ]).…”

“…However, the results can support existing ideas and theories on risk taxation for (violent) reoffending. The current study using LCRA analyses resulted in finding informative subgroups with different risks of reoffending [ 46 , 79 ]. Within juvenile justice institutions, assessment of the risk for reoffending is an important issue, and this model, although it should be replicated in a separate sample, provides a first step to improve current risk assessment by including neurobiological factors as well.…”