Panel I: A Two-Pronged Strategy for Ameliorating Juvenile misbehavior: Addressing Risk-Factors and Treating Mental Health Issues to Increase Program Effectiveness

Abstract

This presentation will discuss how the juvenile justice system has failed to address the mental-health condition of their clients. Although there are a number of common factors that are associated with juvenile misbehavior, to include personal problems, parental disharmony, exposure to criminal activity or drug use, and association with miscreants, addressing their mental health concerns should play a prominent role. This presentation explores using a two pronged strategy, to include treating mental health issues, as a more effective approach for ameliorating juvenile misbehavior. The presentation concludes with findings from promising studies that utilize this strategy.