Can Better Mental Health Services Reduce the Risk of Juvenile Justice System Involvement?

Abstract

Objectives. We evaluated how improved mental health services affect justice involvement among juveniles treated in the public mental health system. Methods. Our analyses were based on administrative and interview data collected in 2 communities participating in the evaluation of a national initiative designed to improve mental health services for children and youths. Results. Results derived from Cox proportional hazard models suggested that better mental health services reduced the risks of initial and subsequent juvenile justice involvement by 31% and 28%, respectively. Effects were somewhat more pronounced for serious offenses. Conclusions. Our findings suggest that improved mental health services reduce the risk of juvenile justice involvement.