Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 24, 2026

Moderate Prenatal Alcohol Exposure and Quantification of Social Behavior in Adult Rats
Published on: December 14, 2014
Behavioral Health Service Utilization Among Detained Adolescents: A Meta-Analysis of Prevalence and Potential
Laura M White1, Matthew C Aalsma2, Michelle P Salyers3
1Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah.
Adolescents in the juvenile justice system show low utilization of behavioral health services. This meta-analysis highlights the need for improved access and quality of care for these vulnerable youth.
Area of Science:
- Adolescent Health
- Mental Health Services Research
- Juvenile Justice System
Background:
- Understanding behavioral health service utilization among justice-involved adolescents is critical but remains poorly defined.
- Existing studies report widely varying estimates for service use in this population.
- This meta-analysis synthesizes current literature to provide a clearer picture of prevalence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and synthesize the literature on the prevalence of behavioral health treatment service utilization.
- To estimate the overall utilization rates for mental health, substance use, and unspecified services.
- To identify potential moderators influencing service utilization.
Main Methods:
- A meta-analysis was performed on data abstracted from 27 studies encompassing 28 distinct samples.
- Prevalence estimates for service utilization were calculated using random effects models.
- Moderator analysis was conducted to explore heterogeneity in utilization rates.
Main Results:
- Overall prevalence of behavioral health service utilization was low, with specific rates for mental health (33.1%), substance use (27.95%), and unspecified services (45.32%).
- Significant heterogeneity was observed in the prevalence of behavioral health service utilization across studies.
- Effect sizes indicate limited engagement with available services.
Conclusions:
- Adolescents with juvenile justice involvement demonstrate limited utilization of behavioral health services, regardless of confinement status.
- Future research should investigate the quality and accessibility of services within and beyond juvenile justice facilities.
- There is a clear need for enhanced programs to ensure consistent and effective behavioral health treatment for this population.
Related Concept Videos
Prevalence and Incidence
Prevalence indicates the proportion of individuals in a population who have a specific disease or health...
Cognitive Development During Adolescence
Directing Effect of Substituents: meta-Directing Groups
Revisionist Views of Adolescent and Adult Cognition
Primary Healthcare Services
In 1978, international leaders convened in Alma-Ata, Kazakhstan, for what would be a pivotal event in global health. The Alma-Ata Declaration was the first to call...
Preventive Healthcare Services

