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 and
weaknesses of youth offenders through neuropsychological assessments and
tailor rehabilitation programmes to better suit their needs. This study aimed to
explore the impacts of neuropsychological reports completed as part of a
neuropsychological assessment service provided to two youth forensic residential
facilities. 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: increased
understanding of cognitive strengths and weaknesses beyond offending
behaviour 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 with
the report to benefit youth.