Longitudinal Treatment Engagement for Youths in the Juvenile Justice System

The burden of psychiatric disorders on an individual’s life is substantial. Not only does a psychiatric disorder affect a person’s mood, but the presence of a psychiatric disorder plays a role in virtually every area of an individual’s life, including romantic and social relationships as well as educational and job opportunities. The presence of psychiatric disorders in vulnerable populations is exacerbated by involvement in the justice system. The Northwestern Juvenile Project has been an invaluable source for researchers, clinicians, and advocates to understand how the course of adolescent development is impacted by justice system involvement, particularly among youths with psychiatric disorders.