Trauma & the Juvenile Justice System: Where Do We Go From Here?
A Listening Guide to the Roadmap for Change Podcast, Episode 1
Change in the juvenile justice system is necessary, and it’s possible. Hear from youth, parents, and experts about their experiences with juvenile detention and what can change in the system.
Welcome to the Episode 1 Listening Guide!
Change in the juvenile justice system is necessary, and it’s possible. In this episode of the Roadmap for Change podcast, hear from youth and their parents about their experiences with juvenile detention and what they want to see change in the system. Professionals in the field also share research and anecdotes about the positive impact of trauma-informed care for youth in the system and public health outcomes.
As you listen (Step 1), feel free to take notes, and then take some time with the reflection questions when you’re done (Step 2). This will help you process some of the more complex topics and find the ways that they intersect with your own life experiences, work, and circle of influence. Then, choose one of the possible action items (Step 3) that feels accessible and see if you can put it into practice.
Step 1: Listen to the Episode
Step 2: Consider These Reflection Questions
1
What do you know/understand about trauma so far? What are some aspects of it that feel vague or confusing that you might want to learn more about?
2
How do you think your past experiences and feelings show up in your own life and behaviors today?
3
Why do you think the justice system is slow to change to a more trauma-informed approach to justice? What do you think the general public’s idea is about how justice works versus how it actually works?
4
Does your job directly or indirectly interact with the justice system? What is your role in that connection? Are you able to take a trauma-informed approach in your own work?
Step 3: Take an Action Step
Share one of the clips from the episode (below) with a friend, coworker, or family member to start a conversation about how the juvenile justice system works.
Look up organizations in your area that are supporting youth involved in the juvenile justice system and reach out to volunteer, make a donation or contribution, or learn more.
Brainstorm ways to take a more trauma-informed approach in your own work (even if it’s just being kinder to yourself and doing some daily grounding meditations)!