Mental and Physical Health Impacts of Juvenile Incarceration: A Systematic Review

• In Event: Legal and Theoretical Perspectives on the Role of Biological and Psychological Factors in Crime and Criminal Justice

Abstract

Juvenile incarceration continues to be implemented as a form of punishment and rehabilitation for youth offenders in the United States. However, the incarceration of this population has been theorized to be linked to long-term negative physical and mental health consequences. To be specific, abolitionists and juvenile researchers have argued that juvenile incarceration increases the risk for several mental and physical health-related issues including substance use disorders, adult depressive symptoms, worse general health, and shorter life expectancy. The current study conducted a systematic review of peer-reviewed research published within the last three decades (1994 to 2024) that identifies mental and physical health impacts of juvenile incarceration. The review uncovered several significant health-related harms as well as major gaps in literature that should be addressed in further research and policy development. Understanding the specific mental and physical health impacts of juvenile incarceration is crucial to making well-informed decisions regarding the reformation of juvenile detention practices.

Authors

• Brenna Fain, Seattle University

• Bridget N. Joyner-Carpanini, Seattle University