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Describing theoretical underpinnings in juvenile justice diversion: A case study explicating Teen Court program theory to guide research and practice

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  • DeFosset, Amelia R
  • Schooley, Taylor S
  • Abrams, Laura S
  • Kuo, Tony
  • Gase, Lauren N

Abstract

In light of evidence that justice system involvement contributes to poor social, economic, and health consequences for youth, many jurisdictions have begun to implement diversion programs for first-time or low-level juvenile offenders. While Teen Court—a program in which youth are judged by their peers and assigned development-oriented sentences—is a prevalent model of juvenile justice diversion, its theoretical basis has not been empirically examined. This in-depth case study sought to describe current practice and characterize theoretical assumptions of the Los Angeles County Teen Court program. Methods included: 1) structured observations of Teen Court hearings (n=12); and 2) key informant interviews with youth processed through Teen Court (n=10). Case findings illustrate the Los Angeles County Teen Court program's focus on hierarchical decision-making, procedural consistency, and deterrence paired with development-oriented supports and services. Practices reflect a combination of retributive and rehabilitative theoretical perspectives, with limited alignment to the reparative perspective. Results from qualitative interviews support the possible positive impacts of Teen Court on program participants; however, given the potentially competing theoretical assumptions that influence local practice, additional work is needed to better understand the relative value of this approach. The practice-grounded logic model developed through this case study provides a foundation for future research and practice locally, including outcome evaluation. The processes and tools described in this study provide an example for other jurisdictions seeking to conduct theory-informed planning and assessment of juvenile diversion efforts.

Suggested Citation

  • DeFosset, Amelia R & Schooley, Taylor S & Abrams, Laura S & Kuo, Tony & Gase, Lauren N, 2017. "Describing theoretical underpinnings in juvenile justice diversion: A case study explicating Teen Court program theory to guide research and practice," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 73(C), pages 419-429.
  • Handle: RePEc:eee:cysrev:v:73:y:2017:i:c:p:419-429
    DOI: 10.1016/j.childyouth.2017.01.005
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Cheryl Puzach & Aida Hass, 2014. "Addressing the Needs of Juvenile Offenders: A Study of the Greene County Missouri Teen Court Model," International Journal of Social Science Studies, Redfame publishing, vol. 2(4), pages 113-122, October.
    2. Myers, Diane M. & Farrell, Anne F., 2008. "Reclaiming lost opportunities: Applying public health models in juvenile justice," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 30(10), pages 1159-1177, October.
    3. Hjalmarsson, Randi, 2008. "Criminal justice involvement and high school completion," Journal of Urban Economics, Elsevier, vol. 63(2), pages 613-630, March.
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