A systematic literature review exploring the role of the educational psychologist in supporting youth justice services

Abstract

This systematic literature review (SLR) aims to explore the current role and functions of educational psychologist (EP) practice within youth justice work. The Crime and Disorder Act (1998) requires all local authorities (LAs) to have a multi-agency team (incorporating health, education, care, police and probation agencies) whose role is to support children and young people known to the Youth Justice System, with the aim of tackling the multi-faceted risk factors linked with youth offending. However, a review of the Youth Justice System by Charlie Taylor (2016) highlighted that there was often little knowledge about education and learning development amongst youth justice professionals (YJPs), and that emotional and mental health needs of those within the system were rising. This, along with the government proposal to develop child psychology knowledge amongst YJPs (Ministry of Justice, 2016a), suggests there is place for EP involvement. Searches of six databases and reference harvesting yielded 10 studies which met eligibility criteria. These were assessed for methodological quality and appropriateness of focus. Though the small number may be viewed as a limitation, it highlights the need for research within this area. The findings of this SLR contribute to the understanding of how the functions of the EP role can be utilised in supporting youth justice services. It concludes with exemplifying how the functions enable EPs to work as scientist-practitioners within complex, real-world contexts, such as youth justice work.