Unseen and Unheard: Mental Health Challenges for Justice-Involved Youth with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Unseen and Unheard: Mental Health Challenges for Justice-Involved Youth with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
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Issue Date
2025-08-01
Authors
Grewal, Jessica
Journal Title
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Abstract
Justice-involved youth with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) face significant barriers in accessing adequate mental health care. Despite their heightened vulnerability, research on their experiences—particularly regarding access to meaningful mental health services—remains limited. This literature review examines existing research on the intersection of justice system involvement, I/DD, and mental health care, highlighting systemic challenges that contribute to ongoing cycles of disadvantage. Key themes include the underidentification of I/DD within the justice system, gaps in appropriate mental health interventions, and structural barriers to equitable care. By synthesizing current findings, this review aims to identify critical
gaps in the literature and underscore the need for more targeted research and policy development. Addressing these issues is essential to improving mental health outcomes for this population and promoting more just, inclusive systems of care.
Description
Keywords
intellectual disability , developmental disabilities , justice involved , recidivism , FASD
License
Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 United States , openAccess