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Exploring ways the youth court system can address youth mental health and reduce youth offending

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From Māori Health Review Issue 120
Authors:
  • Stephens J et al.
Summary:

A New Zealand study has highlighted elevated levels of poverty, trauma, and mental health distress amongst adolescents appearing in the Youth Court compared with their high school peers. The study examined 17-year-olds in youth justice (YJ) between 2019 and 2021, and 17-year-olds in the Youth19 survey (Y19). Exposure to family violence, parental separation, and child protection were all greater in the YJ population compared with the Y19 population. In addition, the YJ population was more likely to have depressive symptoms (odds ratio [OR] 10.5; p < 0.0001), suicidality (OR 7.8; p < 0.0001), and cannabis use (OR 3.2; p < 0.001) compared with the Y19 population, and Māori males were disproportionately affected.

Comment:
This study highlights the profound mental health distress and trauma experienced by rangatahi in the Youth Court system, particularly Māori males, revealing how youth offending is intertwined with poverty, violence, and unmet mental health needs rather than simply criminal behaviour. The findings add urgency for cross-sector action, and a shift from criminalising trauma to investing in early intervention.
Reference: J Forensic Nurs. 2026;22(1):E60-E69.
Abstract
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Independent commentary by Dr. Matire Hardwood

Dr Matire Harwood (Ngapuhi) has worked in Hauora Māori, primary health and rehabilitation settings as clinician and researcher since graduating from Auckland Medical School in 1994. She also holds positions on a number of boards, committees and advisory groups including the Health Research Council. Matire lives in Auckland with her whānau including partner Haunui and two young children Te Rangiura and Waimarie.

Research Review publications are intended for New Zealand health professionals.

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