Module 2: Screening and Assessment

3. Juvenile Justice System Assessments

An assessment of a youth in the juvenile justice system includes a juvenile justice history and two types of assessment, namely risk assessment and needs assessment. In conducting assessments, it is important for juvenile justice staff to identify youth with co-occurring disorders because linking them with treatment may be more appropriate than a more intense level of supervision. Reassessment of risk and need is highly recommended for youth with co-occurring disorders because their circumstances change frequently. Because the juvenile justice system often requires a youth with co-occurring disorders to participate in treatment, critical information for mental health and substance abuse treatment providers must be provided.