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A mixed methods implementation study of juvenile drug treatment courts

NCJ Number
310939
Journal
Juvenile & Family Court Journal Volume: 76 Issue: 2
Author(s)
Juliette R. Mackin; Lauren Pappacena; Raanan Kagan
Date Published
June 2025
Abstract

The Juvenile Drug Treatment Court (JDTC) Guidelines were developed to offer an evidence-based model for providing treatment to youth with substance use disorders who enter the juvenile justice system. A national evaluation was conducted to assess practices used by JDTCs and to test the guidelines. Data include program-level survey data; qualitative, guided discussions with JDTC staff; and court observations. Results reveal wide variation in the practices utilized by sites and their success in implementing the guidelines. These findings support the development of a best practice model for JDTCs to improve youth outcomes.

(Publisher abstract provided.)