Polyvictimization and Psychosocial Outcomes Among Trauma-Exposed, Clinic-Referred Youth Involved in the Juvenile Justice System.

Journal Article (Journal Article)

Polyvictimization is a robust predictor of emotional and behavioral problems and is linked to involvement in juvenile justice and other public sector systems. This study extends prior research by employing person-centered methods for identifying polyvictimization patterns among trauma-exposed, clinic-referred, justice-involved youth (n = 689; ages 12-18 years) and how identified classes differ on psychosocial outcomes and demographic characteristics. Most participants had experienced multiple traumatic event (TE) types. Latent class analyses identified three classes: mixed trauma/bereavement exposure group (55.1%; Mean = 3.0 TE types); maltreatment polyvictimized group (29.3%; Mean = 5.7 TE types); and maltreatment plus extreme violence polyvictimized group (15.7%; Mean = 9.3 TE types). Polyvictimized youth were more likely to be female, in out-of-home placements, and experiencing negative psychosocial outcomes (e.g., Posttraumatic Stress Disorder). Hispanic/Latino youth were overrepresented in the extreme polyvictimized subgroup. Results underscore the need for cross-system coordination of trauma-informed, comprehensive services for clinic-referred, justice-involved youth.

Full Text

Duke Authors

Cited Authors

  • Pane Seifert, HT; Tunno, AM; Briggs, EC; Hill, S; Grasso, DJ; Adams, ZW; Ford, JD

Published Date

  • November 2022

Published In

Volume / Issue

  • 27 / 4

Start / End Page

  • 626 - 636

PubMed ID

  • 34170201

Electronic International Standard Serial Number (EISSN)

  • 1552-6119

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

  • 10.1177/10775595211025096

Language

  • eng

Conference Location

  • United States