Publications from ODSW Social Insights: Letters by DSW (Vol 1) | Page 97

Re-entry and Integration

caring relationship with an adult are twice as likely as youths without a
meaningful adult relationship, to have healthy family and social relationships,
to be financially self-sufficient, and to be engaged in their communities. So
for youths involved in the juvenile justice system, the need for positive role
models and pro-social activities is even greater.
The concept of mentoring as a means of support and guidance is increasingly
applied to adults involved in the criminal justice system. While it is difficult to
measure the impact of interpersonal relationships on behaviour, it is believed
that mentors can provide important support during the transition from
incarceration to the community.
Mentoring services can also help a program apply responsivity principles.
A mentor can address an individual’s low motivation or unpreparedness for
change, enhance pro-social thinking and behaviour through modelling, and
engage the participant in avoiding substance abuse or accessing mental
health treatment, education, or family-based support services.
Addressing Substance Abuse and Mental Health Needs
Substance abuse and mental illness are issues among some prisoners. Some
meet the criteria for substance dependence or abuse even though they may
not have been picked up for a related offence. Some have mental health
needs. It is a dilemma to consider addressing these needs while they are
incarcerated. Ideally of course, addressing these needs before and after
release from incarceration is crucial in promoting recovery and decreasing
the likelihood of criminal behaviour and returning to prison. However, the
identification process and the treatment have cost considerations.
Supporting Youth to Avert Future Involvement in the Criminal Justice
System
While the number of youths in juvenile rehabilitation facilities has declined
significantly in recent years, there is still a steady population. Many of these
young people struggle with challenges such as low levels of education,
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