Frontline workers’ perceptions of youth with mental health issues at a residential treatment facility

Abstract Despite the growing number of youths with mental health needs entering the juvenile justice system, few studies have been conducted on direct care workers’ (DCW) perceptions of youth with mental health issues. This study examined the perceptions of DCW at an all-male juvenile residential treatment facility for at-risk youth. Specifically, the study used both quantitative and qualitative techniques to survey DCW on their perceptions of youth with and without mental health issues, as well as their work with both populations. The findings suggest that DCW perceive youth with mental health issues less favorably than youth without mental health issues. They also report their work performance to be less effective with youth mental health issues compared to their work with youth without mental health issues. DCW further suggest more resources and training for work with youth who have severe mental health issues, to properly address their needs.