Adolescents in therapeutic residential care: treatment needs and characteristics

Abstract

Despite the growing body of literature examining the complex needs of adolescents in residential care populations, few studies have investigated the specific treatment needs and characteristics of adolescents in therapeutic residential care (TRC). This study aimed to describe and compare risk, need and responsivity factors in a national sample of 737 juveniles (63% males, mean age = 16.2) who displayed serious behavioural problems. The study utilised comprehensive assessment data, including demographic information, clinical variables, and risk factors assessed with the Youth Level of Service/Case management Inventory (YLS/CMI). Sample characteristics were explored, and three subgroups were compared: adolescents with serious substance abuse, adolescents with a high risk of continued delinquency and adolescents with low/moderate risk. The sample showed complex needs in multiple criminogenic domains and substantial mental health problems. Subgroups were clearly differentiated by the YLS/CMI risk profile and several demographic attributes; however, most clinical variables concerning mental health overlapped between groups. The findings suggest that TRC interventions should be aimed at reducing the risk of persistent delinquency and structured according to the principles of risk, need and responsivity. The study has important clinical implications for how differentiated services can tailor interventions to group-based needs and characteristics.