Transition Practices for Adjudicated Youth with E/BDs and Related Disabilities

Abstract

Reentry outcomes for formerly incarcerated youth are dismal. The challenges these youth face are even further intensified when they have learning or emotional and behavioral disabilities. Successful transition services need to be initiated in the correctional facility and continue in the community. This article discusses interventions designed to aid the reentry of formerly incarcerated youth into their communities. Caps in existing service delivery are identified. Guiding principles for effective reentry programs and specific strategies focused on increasing employment and continuing education, both while incarcerated and when released, are highlighted.