Aftercare and Juvenile Recidivism: An Evaluation of Efficacy and Heterogeneity of Treatment Effects

• In Event: Decoding Juvenile Risk: Review of Tools and Trends

Abstract

Prior research has documented a number of challenges associated with successful reintegration into the community among juveniles returning from residential commitment programs. Aftercare services, which can include both continued community supervision and services, have been proposed as a potential practice to facilitate successful reentry. This study examines the impact of aftercare services on recidivism outcomes for youth released from residential commitment facilities in a large southeastern state. Specifically, it assesses whether youth who receive (1) supervision only, (2) supervision and services, or (3) no aftercare services display differences in recidivism rates. Drawing from juvenile and adult corrections administrative data, a matched outcome analysis compares recidivism among youth with comparable demographic, legal, and social risk factors. Further, it considered possible heterogeneity of treatment effects by exploring the moderating effects of youth and community characteristics on aftercare’s impact. The findings will aid in understanding the role of aftercare and contextual factors in juveniles’ future offending and inform policy decisions about interventions and rehabilitation.

Authors

• Michaela Wilson, Florida State University

• Keller Sheppard, Florida State University