Qualitative Analysis of Neuropsychology Report Utility in Youth Justice

Youth offenders account for a high proportion of the offending population.This highlights the need to understand individual cognitive strengths andweaknesses of youth offenders through neuropsychological assessments andtailor rehabilitation programmes to better suit their needs. This study aimed toexplore the impacts of neuropsychological reports completed as part of aneuropsychological assessment service provided to two youth forensic residentialfacilities. Interviews were completed with 15 staff, including medical staff,educators and Corrections officers. Interview data underwent thematic analysis,which revealed six key themes concerning report utility: increasedunderstanding of cognitive strengths and weaknesses beyond offendingbehaviour by youth, family, courts and staff; diagnostic clarification; strengthsbased approach/adapt and change approach; increased access to services;referrals and provision of appropriate services; and multi-level engagement withthe report to benefit youth.