| Abstrakt: |
The article examines the role of pediatricians in the care and well-being of patients in the juvenile justice system. The major risk factors for behavior that can lead to legal trouble include a learning disability or cognitive delay, a history of emotional, physical and sexual abuse, neglect, trauma, mental disorders and substance abuse. A pediatrician's efforts can influence the course and outcome of a child's case during the pre-arrest, pretrial, trial and post-trial and disposition stages. Steps that may help prevent later juvenile delinquency include screening for developmental delay, early referral for testing and treatment for children with a delay and encouraging parents to read to their child. |
