Recidivism, Costs, and Psychosocial Outcomes for a Post-Arrest Juvenile Diversion Program

Recidivism, costs, and psychosocial outcomes are reported for a postarrest diversion program in Wayne County (Detroit), MI. Program features included: rapid, standardized assessment of psychosocial functioning with the Juvenile Inventory For Functioning (R), an individualized plan for addressing needs, engagement of caregivers, service provision by youth assistance programs in the youth's community, and access to mental health and substance use services as needed. The adjudication rate for new offenses one-year post services was 7.7 %, for a program that costs $ 1,500 per youth. Significant improvement in functioning was observed for youth with an exit assessment. Functioning at entry predicted recidivism.