Module 2: Screening and Assessment

4F. Mental Health and Substance Abuse Screening Tools Used in the Juvenile Justice System

Many juvenile justice agencies have developed their own screening tools. Although these tools vary in their format and specific wording, most have some questions about mental health, substance abuse, and suicide. Some agencies screen for mental health/suicide and substance abuse with two separate measures. Examples of juvenile justice screening instruments can be found in the section Standardized Screening and Assessment Instruments.

All front-line juvenile justice staff who work with youth who have co-occurring disorders should be trained in basic self-report screening approaches and become comfortable with them. If a screening instrument is not copyrighted, juvenile justice staff can adapt it for their specific settings and expertise. If a screening or assessment tool is copyrighted, agencies must obtain the instrument directly from the person or organization who developed it or request permission to use it. In some cases, a fee may be charged.

Think About What type of screening for mental health and substance abuse disorders is conducted when a juvenile offender first arrives at your setting?