NCJ Number
250441
Date Published
November 2016
Length
63 pages
Annotation
This study reviewed the evidence on implementation barriers, facilitators, and other process issues related to the establishment of effective juvenile drug courts (JDCs).
Abstract
The review searched relevant databases and Internet resources to identify eligible studies. Both qualitative and quantitative evidence were considered. The 477 findings drawn from the 59 eligible studies were aggregated into 14 broad conceptual categories that reflected various aspects of the juvenile drug court system. Forty interpretive statements were developed across these categories. They reflect a broad range of process issues. The bulk of these statements focus on family members as stakeholders in the JDC process; standards for ensuring accountability, such as the consistent application of behavioral contingencies; and various needs of JDC participants, such as mental health treatment. Families may be prepared to partner effectively with the JDC to facilitate a youth's engagement in treatment services and compliance with court expectations; however, families may experience obstacles to this partnership, such as parental substance abuse, or they may resist cooperation based on disagreements with court objectives and procedures. Also, the quality and effectiveness of substance abuse and mental health treatments available in the community will affect outcomes for youth and their families. 2 exhibits, 68 references, and appended list of included and coded studies, process themes for JDCs, quality rating of study methodology, and FileMaker Pro Database screenshots