Trauma‐Informed Care for Justice‐Involved Youth: A narrative review and synthesis

Abstract

Justice‐involved youth (JIY) experience extremely high prevalence rates of trauma prior to their involvement in the juvenile justice system. Trauma outcomes are heterogeneous, long‐term, and may influence JIY outcomes. Although specific evidence‐based treatments (EBTs) target trauma symptoms, few studies have examined treatment outcomes in relation to adolescent populations, and even fewer have examined treatment outcomes in relation to JIY. This review examines evidence supporting the effectiveness of trauma‐focused treatments with JIY. The existing literature suggests trauma‐focused interventions may be a promising avenue for improving both mental health and juvenile justice outcomes for JIY. Clinical practice and policy implications are discussed.