Juvenile Justice Studies Resource Guide

Adolescence can be defined as the period in life when most of a person’s biological, cognitive, psychological, and social characteristics are changing in an interrelated manner from what is considered childlike to what is considered adultlike (Lerner & Spanier, 1980). When most of one’s characteristics are in this state of change one is an adolescent.

Adolescent sexuality examines the physical, psychological, and behavioral changes that occur as individuals leave childhood, acquire sexual maturity, and incorporate the various aspects of sexuality into their identity.

Conduct Disorder is a repetitive and persistent pattern of behavior that violates societal norms or the basic rights of others (American Psychiatric Association, 1994), covering four symptom areas: (1) aggressive behavior that threatens or causes physical harm to other people or animals (e.g., bullies, threatens, or intimidates others;), (2) nonaggressive conduct that causes property loss or damage (e.g., fire setting), (3) deceitfulness or theft (e.g., breaking into someone’s house or car), and (4) serious violation of rules (e.g., truancy). To be diagnosed, at least 3 of 15 possible symptoms must have been displayed during the past 12 months. Childhood-onset Conduct Disorder is differentiated from adolescent-onset when at least one of the behavioral characteristics is evident before age 10.

Teenagers' mental health, like their development, is normally well and adaptable. However, some teenagers have difficulty coping with stress and illness, leading to disorders such as major depression, which places them at risk of committing suicide.

Some children and teenagers commit acts of violence on their families, peers, authority figures, or strangers. Such antisocial behavior may result from psychiatric disorders or social catalysts.

Streaming videos about developmental psychology from infants to adolescents.

Counselors discuss psychological issues related to child welfare and juvenile justice cases.

Adolescence is a time of positive changes and exciting opportunities. But because teenagers lack adult perspective and life experience, good judgment and strong internal coping mechanisms may not be in place when they need them the most.
Includes a link to an Instructor's Guide with student worksheets.