Breaking Youth Behind Bars: A Literature Review What are the Psychological Effects of Incarceration on Youth?

Few conclusions have been made about the psychological effects of incarceration onyoung offenders. However, studies indicate that the current approach of the juvenile justicesystem is not favorable for the development of adolescents. The high prevalence of recidivism(repeat offending), among youth demonstrates the shortcomings of the primary goal of detentioncenters, which is to rehabilitate juvenile delinquents. This brings up questions about the actualimpact imprisonment has on adolescents since the desired outcomes are not being met. Thehostility and isolation regularly experienced in detention centers deprive adolescents ofdeveloping the necessary skills to function effectively within society. While incarceration maybe an immediate solution to halting juvenile criminal behaviors, research continues to highlightthe lasting negative psychological consequences detention centers have on adolescents. Delvingdeeper into the prevalent situations often experienced by juvenile delinquents before, during, andafter incarceration, it can be concluded that imprisonment contributes to the behavioral andemotional problems often found among incarcerated youth. These findings suggest the need for amore developmental and diplomatic approach within the juvenile justice system to provide themost effective treatment for this population