Washington — The American Psychological Association has called for prohibiting the placement of youths in isolation in juvenile justice settings, except for emergencies, citing the research showing its detrimental effects on mental health and development.
“APA stands firm in its opposition to the isolation of youth in juvenile justice settings,” said APA President Cynthia de las Fuentes, PhD. “Solitary confinement can have profound and lasting effects on the psychological well-being of young individuals, and it is imperative that we advocate for alternative approaches that prioritize rehabilitation and support.”
APA’s governing Council of Representatives adopted a resolution calling for the prohibition at its meeting Feb. 23. The measure passed by a vote of 154-2, with one abstention.
The resolution, titled “APA Resolution Opposing Isolation of Youth in Juvenile Justice Settings,” marks a milestone in APA’s ongoing commitment to advocating for the well-being and rights of youth involved in the juvenile justice system.
Highlights of the resolution include:
- Prohibition of solitary confinement of youth, except in emergency circumstances, such as instances in which the youth is an imminent danger of serious physical harm to themselves or to others.
- Limitation of solitary confinement duration to the shortest time necessary to address imminent safety concerns.
- Implementation of alternative, evidence-based strategies for managing behavior and promoting positive youth development.
- Emphasis on the importance of ongoing monitoring and mental health support for youth subjected to isolation.
“Solitary confinement should never be used for punishment or disciplinary purposes, or for the protection of property,” according to the resolution. “The separation of youths from others must never be a substitute for adequate staffing numbers, staff training, and supervisory and/or administrative support.”
The measure includes a recommendation that federal agencies and/or state youth justice authorities keep accurate track of and publicly report the frequency, prevalence, duration, conditions and rationales for various forms of individual confinement, breaking down the data by subpopulations and identities including gender, racial/ethnic, LGBTQ+ status and physical/intellectual disability.