What does trauma-informed care in juvenile justice aim to achieve?

Trauma-informed care in juvenile justice aims to create a holistic approach that actively recognizes and addresses the significant impact of trauma on young individuals. This framework emphasizes understanding how traumatic experiences can affect behavior, emotional regulation, and interpersonal relationships. By focusing on the whole person rather than solely their behaviors or offenses, trauma-informed care seeks to foster an environment that promotes healing and resilience.

This approach involves training staff to recognize the signs of trauma and incorporating strategies that are sensitive to the needs of traumatized youth. Rather than relying on punitive measures, this model aims to create safe and supportive interactions that encourage positive development and reduce recidivism. By prioritizing understanding and empathy, trauma-informed care ultimately contributes to more effective rehabilitation and better outcomes for youth in the juvenile justice system.