Working in the juvenile justice system offers both unique benefits and challenges. One significant advantage is the opportunity to positively impact the lives of young people who may be at a critical juncture in their development. By providing guidance, support, and rehabilitation services, professionals in this field can help steer youth away from further involvement in the justice system and towards productive, law-abiding futures. Additionally, working with young offenders allows professionals to witness firsthand the potential for growth and change, fostering a sense of fulfillment and accomplishment in their work.

However, there are also considerable challenges associated with this line of work. Dealing with youth who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect requires a high level of empathy, patience, and skill in order to effectively address their needs and behaviors. Furthermore, the juvenile justice system often operates within a complex web of legal, social, and institutional factors, presenting professionals with logistical and bureaucratic hurdles that can impede their efforts to provide effective intervention and support. Additionally, managing the emotional toll of working with troubled youth, as well as the potential for burnout, is a constant challenge for those in this field.

Overall, while working in the juvenile justice system can be immensely rewarding, it also requires a deep commitment to serving vulnerable populations amidst a myriad of obstacles and complexities. Optionally, to learn more about the role, responsibility, and job opportunities working in the juvenile justice system, review the following resources:

• Watch Working as a Group Life Coordinator [Streaming Video].
• Watch Juvenile Justice: Detention – What’s It Like? [Streaming Video].
• Watch Juvenile Correctional Officers [Streaming Video].
• Check out Jobs at OYA – Oregon Youth Authority [Website] to learn more.

Working with youth takes patience, consistency, and compassion. It is one of the most difficult jobs, but it can be a very positive influence in the lives of kids who need it the most. If you are interested in working with youth, plan on committing to at least a year. Incarcerated kids are used to having people give up on them and disappoint them, so you do not want to add to their negative experiences. Show up, follow through, and be optimistic about a better future for justice-involved youth (Burke, 2018).

Licenses and Attributions for Careers in Juvenile Justice

“Careers in Juvenile Justice” by Roxie Supplee is licensed under CC BY 4.0.