Date of Conferral

2023

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Julie Lindahl

Abstract

There are not many young adults who experience a successful turnaround after they leave a juvenile detention center. Many young adults who leave juvenile detention centers are at risk of reoffending and returning to the system due to a paucity of resources. It is vital to recognize the positive and successful experiences of those young adults who do not re-enter the criminal justice system. The purpose of this research study was to understand (a) the different experiences of certain young adults involving their successful turnaround story, (b) why the young adults engaged in criminal activity, and (c) what interventions worked for their success. Using a phenomenological structured interview, nine participants shared their lived experiences regarding successful turnaround to employment or school. The theoretical framework of this study was McKay’s social disorganization theory. The research question addressed the lived experiences of young adults leaving juvenile detention centers who experienced significant trauma in their lives. Coding was used after each interview, and responses were analyzed for common themes among the participants. There were multiple subthemes identified during all the interviews, which were categorized into four main themes: disadvantaged neighborhoods, generalization about young adults, reoffending reasons, and effective intervention programs. Participants who had a positive turnaround to education or employment found that positive resources during their childhood would have a positive impact. The findings of this research study have potential to promote positive change by supporting future researchers and practitioners in understanding the factors that help young adults achieve a positive turnaround.

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