The Adjustment of Young Adults (18 - 21 year olds) in Adult Facilities

• In Event: Justice Involved Youth, Young Adults & Mental Health Issues

Abstract

Research suggests that young people are significantly more likely to die of self-harm/suicide in adult jail/prisons than in juvenile facilities. It also suggests that young adults in adult jails/prisons are more likely to be involved in more assaults and disciplinary actions than their adult counterparts. Arguably, this is because they have greater difficulties in adjustment and less effective coping skills than adult prisoners. This paper discusses what we can import from the youth justice system and other jurisdictions that treat 18 - 21 year olds, or "emerging adults" as an important and distinct sub-population within the adult system. Additionally, it will address the need to better support incarcerated young adults with mental health issues.

Authors

• Carla Cesaroni, University of Ontario Institute of Technology

• Michele Peterson-Badali, University of Toronto