Abstract:
Many children and youth in the child welfare (dependency) and juvenile justice (delinquency) systems
Have experienced or witnessed violence or other traumatic events and suffered the fear of ongoing
exposure to harm; these experiences can lead to increased social, emotional, and physical needs. Trauma-informed care and evidence- based mental health treatments are a crucial part of recovery (Clawson, Salomon, & Grace, 2008). In trauma-informed care, treatment is guided by an understanding of exposure to violence and trauma-related issues that can present themselves in youth when they get involved with the courts. Trauma-informed care is an important framework for accommodating these young people’s vulnerabilities, although it is not designed to treat specific symptoms or syndromes. Evidence-based therapeutic and, sometimes, pharmacological approaches are the best path to improved functioning and quality of life from specific symptoms. Attorneys, Guardians ad Litem (GALs),
Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteers, and judges in abuse/neglect and juvenile justice cases can help the youth they work with and create a trauma-informed court system by learning about trauma, helping ensure youth receive appropriate treatment, and performing trauma-informed advocacy.