Trauma in Forensic Adolescent Females: Predictors, Correlates and Mental Health Outcomes

This study investigated the demographic predictors of trauma in adolescent females. The role of trauma in the outcomes of psychopathology were examined. Additionally, alcohol and substance use were examined as a product of trauma and leading cause of forensic status. Finally, the mental health of the present sample was compared to paired national averages. Participants included 35 adolescent females currently in the juvenile justice system. Results indicate that the present forensic sample demonstrated significantly worse mental health than non-forensic youth. Additionally, those with a history of trauma showed worse outcomes than youth with fewer traumas experienced. Several demographic factors were predictors of trauma, and trauma in turn predicted alcohol abuse. Those with a history of trauma showed significantly poorer behavioral and academic functioning in addition to mental health difficulties. Implications for the juvenile justice system and mental health treatment are discussed.