Addressing the Needs of Young People with Traumatic Brain Injury in the Criminal Justice System

This advocacy video from Youth Justice TBI provides an overview of the prevalence of traumatic brain injury in the legal system and its impacts on justice for youth in the system.  

“Approximately 50% of young people who have been charged with an offense have a documented history of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). This advocacy video ‘Addressing the needs of young people with TBI in the Criminal Justice System’ was created to raise awareness and understanding regarding the high prevalence of TBI in youth justice and the impact this can have on the justice trajectory. Specifically, the cognitive-communication and social communication challenges associated with TBI can compromise the young person’s ability to fully participate in proceedings and advocate for themselves. The video employs the use of storytelling, interview and didactic learning to engage viewers, as well as to educate and empower those who work in the justice system with capacity building through increased knowledge, strategies, and empathy.”