Understanding factors related to recidivism and reducing recidivism for Latino Justice Involved Youth

The Hispanic/Latino/a population is the most rapidly growing ethnic minority group and face disproportionate rates of environmental and societal disadvantages. Studies have shown that these disadvantages have a direct impact on youth’s behavior outcomes, social well-being, academic achievement, employment status, and create pipeline to the justice system. Further, studies have shown the value of validation and increasing cultural identity to play a positive role in Latino/a youth’s academic achievements. The purpose of this study was to better understand the factors that contribute to Latino/a youth’s recidivism into the justice system, as well solutions for youth to not re-offend. Justice involved youth refers to youth that are 18 and under who have been accused of committing a crime or delinquent act. Additionally, this study sought to explore the relationship between cultural identity, self-efficacy, and the intent to not reoffend. A mixed-methods approach was utilized; quantitative and qualitative data of Latino/a justice involved youth in San Diego County was collected. There were a total N=34 participants surveyed, both males and females, between 12-17-years of age. Qualitative data for this research were also gathered through two adult key informant interviews that are considered credible messengers; Credible Messenger Justice Center describes credible messengers as persons with lived experience that are now working to positively influence justice involved youth to a better path as a form of restorative justice. Findings suggest that (1) there was not a strong connection between cultural identity and self-efficacy and (2) there was not a strong connection observed between cultural identity and youth’s intent to not reoffend. Findings indicate, similar to previous research studies, that there may be other factors that impact Latino/a youth’s intent to not reoffend. Recommendations for future studies and those that work with justice involved youth are presented based on the valuable feedback received from participants.