Sociology and Criminology-Open Access
Open Access

Abstract

Youth Outcomes in a Community Collaboration Model

Cynthia Zubritsky, Holly Wald and Nancy Jaquette

five-year integrated, community-focused collaboration for adolescents receiving juvenile justice services who also had diagnosed mental health and substance abuse disorders is described. Multiple outcomes, including multisystem- level and individual client-level outcomes are reported. System level outcomes include: 1) the creation and continuation of a system of care for the target group, including natural and community supports; and 2) the impact of cultural issues on treatment and integrated service planning. Individual client-level outcomes include: 1) reduced juvenile justice systems involvement and reduced incarceration and out-of-home placements; 2) improved school performance and attendance; 3) accurate and timely behavioral health screening; 4) improved clinical outcomes; and 5) improved satisfaction with services.