Piloting an Evidence-Based Assessment Protocol for Incarcerated Adolescents

Area of Science:

• Adolescent Psychiatry
• Forensic Psychology
• Evidence-Based Practice

Background:

• Evidence-based assessment is crucial for effective mental health treatment but is underutilized in adolescent care.
• Incarcerated justice-involved adolescents face significant mental health challenges and limited access to specialized psychiatric services.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe an evidence-based assessment protocol developed for incarcerated justice-involved adolescents.
• To identify necessary modifications for implementing evidence-based assessment in this population.
• To discuss policy and clinical implications for enhancing access to care.

Main Methods:

• A specific evidence-based assessment protocol was designed and piloted.
• The protocol was adapted for the unique context of incarcerated adolescents.
• The study involved collaboration within Rhode Island's juvenile justice system.

Main Results:

• The piloted protocol demonstrated feasibility for use with justice-involved adolescents.
• Specific adaptations were identified as necessary for this population.
• The study highlighted the need for improved access to evidence-based psychiatric care.

Conclusions:

• Implementing tailored evidence-based assessment protocols can improve mental health care for incarcerated adolescents.
• Policy and clinical changes are needed to increase access to these essential services.
• Addressing the mental health needs of justice-involved youth requires specialized, evidence-based approaches.