Institutional Experience and Psychosocial Maturity for Transitional-Aged Youth

• In Event: Poster Session 1

Abstract

Prior research has revealed a negative association between psychosocial maturity and offending. The existing literature suggests that the level of psychosocial maturity within youth impacts the rate at which they return to various secured facilities, but research is limited regarding how repeated exposure to institutional experience further influences psychosocial maturity development. The purpose of this study is to explore the divergent effects of repeated exposure to secure facilities and residential treatment facilities on psychosocial maturity. The current study focuses on transitional-aged youth (ages 15 to 26) because they face various developmental challenges and changes in life circumstances wherein they question convention and social norms, making them particularly vulnerable to external influences. We will use data from the Pathway to Desistance Research project (N = 1,354) to examine the relationship between time spent in different types of institutions and psychosocial maturity and whether this relationship was similar across waves and by age groups. Our discussion will center on the developmental implications of repeated exposure in secured facilities and residential treatment facilities.

Authors

• Donia Chiciu, Georgia State University

• Frances Chen, Georgia State University