Explore projects in Juvenile Justice!
These projects focus on the systems, policies, and practices that affect youth who come into contact with the legal system. These studies examine the causes and consequences of juvenile delinquency, as well as the effectiveness of prevention, intervention, and rehabilitation programs. Researchers explore how factors such as family environment, school engagement, trauma, mental health, and community resources influence youth behavior and justice involvement. Many projects also address disparities based on race, socioeconomic status, and gender, aiming to promote fairness and reduce bias in juvenile justice processes. This research informs evidence-based approaches that prioritize developmentally appropriate, restorative, and rehabilitative responses to youth offending.

“Juvenile crime poster” by Children’s Bureau Centennial, in the Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic, via Wikimedia Commons
- CAREER: Developing and Testing the Integrated Youth Development Model Framework for the Future of Juvenile Justice Scholarship, Education, and PracticeProject Abstract/Summary In the United States, we have a separate juvenile justice system because policymakers, practitioners, and researchers believe that children are fundamentally different from adults in ways that requires different treatment under the law. Specifically, we believe they are more amenable to treatment, intervention, and rehabilitation. Indeed, when they receive the proper supports and resources, children are remarkably resilient. However, the juvenile justice field typically focuses on compliance and control rather than promoting positive growth and helping youth reach… Read more: CAREER: Developing and Testing the Integrated Youth Development Model Framework for the Future of Juvenile Justice Scholarship, Education, and Practice