A mixed methods implementation study of juvenile drug treatment courts

Abstract

The Juvenile Drug Treatment Court (JDTC) Guidelines were developed to offer an evidence-based model for providing treatment to youth with substance use disorders who enter the juvenile justice system. A national evaluation was conducted to assess practices used by JDTCs and to test the guidelines. Data include program-level survey data; qualitative, guided discussions with JDTC staff; and court observations. Results reveal wide variation in the practices utilized by sites and their success in implementing the guidelines. These findings support the development of a best practice model for JDTCs to improve youth outcomes.