NCJ Number
213894
Date Published
2005
Length
84 pages
Annotation
This study investigated the prevalence and significance of learning disabilities (LD) among the juvenile arrestee population in Lexington, KY between July and November 1999.
Abstract
Main findings indicated that nearly one-third of the study population of 171 incarcerated juveniles had at least 1 learning disability and almost half had more than 1 mental health diagnosis. The most prevalent learning disabilities in the sample were attention deficit disorder (ADD) and emotional behavior disorder. The author contends that the correctional system must provide services in accordance with the Individual with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) for juveniles with LD in confinement. Appropriate educational services will increase the probability of successful reintegration as a productive member of society. Data further revealed that juveniles with LD were more likely to go to jail once arrested. Those with ADD were slightly more likely to go to jail than their counterparts with other learning disabilities. Data on 171 male and female juveniles incarcerated in Lexington, KY from July through November 1999 were gathered from the Lexington-Fayette Urban Government Division of Corrections. Interviews with participants were conducted before they were remanded to temporary detention residences and focused on demographic and social variables as well as variables specific to learning disability. Data analysis included the calculation of descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation coefficients. Future research should examine juvenile detention intake processes in order to learn about youth’s education and mental health status. Tables, references, appendices