Beyond compliance: How occupational therapy fulfills IDEA and empowers justice-involved youths

Occupational deprivation exists within the fences of correctional facilities across the country. The lack of meaning, purpose, and engagement is particularly concerning for adolescents who should be actively involved in occupations that shape identity: education, healthy social participation, leisure, and work exploration. When these opportunities are limited, young people are at increased risk for disengagement, poor self-efficacy, and harmful long-term outcomes.