Transforming Justice

Summary

Placing young people outside their homes disrupts family ties, undermines educational continuity and developmental trajectory, and can lead to long-term mental and physical health consequences.

This report by the Juvenile Law Center, funded by the Annie E. Casey Foundation, provides research and recommendations to support bringing Pennsylvania’s young people safely home from juvenile justice placements.

Table of Contents

• Table of Contents
• Introduction
• Part I: Background and Context
• Part II: National Research on the Harms of Youth Justice Placement
• Part III: Approaches to Reducing Youth Placement
• Part IV: Recommendations
• Conclusion
• Appendix
• Endnotes

Key Takeaway

Pennsylvania's reliance on youth placement outpaces national averages

Pennsylvania should transfom its treatment of young people involved in the juvenile justice system. This includes implementing policies that will: 1) engage youth and families in reform; 2) advance equity; 3) limit entry points; 4) expand the continuum of services; and 5) ensure system accountability.