Examining Latent Class Profiles of ACEs in Predicting Externalizing and Internalizing Outcomes and Juvenile Recidivism

• In Event: Mental Health Considerations for Justice Involved Youth

Abstract

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) have consistently been linked to later adverse outcomes including negative impacts on mental health and offending. Using a state-wide sample of justice-involved youth, latent class analysis (LCA) was used to examine heterogeneity in the latent profiles of ACEs based on patterns of co-occurring ACEs. The utility of these latent classes was compared to the use of cumulative risk scores in predicting recidivism. Further, a series of regression models were used to examine whether certain latent class profiles were more strongly related to internalizing (e.g. anxiety, depression) outcomes as compared to externalizing (e.g. aggression, violence) outcomes. Finally, statistical models designed to assess mediated relationships were used to examine the interrelationships between ACEs, internalizing and externalizing behaviors, and recidivism while controlling for important demographic characteristics and other risk factors. Results and implications of this study will be discussed.

Authors

• Jennifer Yang, John Jay College of Criminal Justice / CUNY Graduate Center

• Kevin Wolff, John Jay College of Criminal Justice, CUNY

• Michael Baglivio, Youth Opportunity Investments