At Risk Youth - Behaviors, Judicial Consequences and Effective Solutions (1 CE)

Description:

In this episode of the Multicultural Psychologist Podcast, host Linda Fleming McGee is joined by psychologists Cassidy Tennity and Katie Ramsay to discuss the intersection of youth mental health, diagnosis, and the criminal justice system. The conversation explores how neurodevelopmental conditions such as ADHD, trauma exposure, and systemic inequities can influence behavioral outcomes for young people, particularly those from marginalized communities.

Drs. Tennity and Ramsay examine how diagnostic practices and assessment tools may unintentionally reinforce disparities, especially for Black and Latino youth who are disproportionately represented in juvenile justice systems. The discussion highlights the role of clinician bias, underdiagnosis of ADHD, and the overuse of labels such as oppositional defiant disorder and conduct disorder.

The episode also explores solutions, including early identification, culturally responsive assessment, prevention programs, brief interventions, and improving access to mental health services in schools and community settings. Listeners will gain insight into how psychologists, educators, and communities can work collaboratively to support youth, reduce systemic inequities, and interrupt pathways from schools to the justice system.

Keywords: juvenile justice system, ADHD in youth, school-to-prison pipeline, culturally responsive assessment, multicultural psychology, trauma in youth, oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, youth mental health disparities, psychological assessment bias, early intervention programs, brief mental health interventions, neurodiversity in youth, prevention in schools, mental health access

Guest: Dr. Cassidy Tennity and Dr. Katie Ramsay 

Learning Objectives:

1. Describe how neurodevelopmental conditions such as ADHD and trauma exposure may contribute to behavioral challenges and justice system involvement among youth.

2. Identify systemic and cultural factors that contribute to disparities in diagnosis and treatment for marginalized youth.

3. Recognize limitations in commonly used psychological assessment tools when applied to racially and culturally diverse populations.

4. Explain the role of early intervention, prevention programs, and brief evidence-based interventions in reducing behavioral risk and justice system involvement.

5. Apply strategies to improve culturally responsive assessment and increase access to mental health services for at-risk youth.