Development Interrupted: Emerging Adults and the Criminal Justice System

Emerging adults–young people between the ages of 18 and 25–are one of the most poorly served age groups in the criminal justice system. Although emerging adults constitute a substantial portion of the people who are arrested, charged, or incarcerated, they are also at an age of exceptional promise and malleability, “an age of opportunity” when the chance to finish school, get a job, develop healthy relationships, or access healthcare can transform their path to long-term economic self-sufficiency and emotional well-being. Unfortunately, many adult criminal justice systems squander emerging adults’ unique potential, leading to worse outcomes for young people and more potential crime for their communities. This article reviews current knowledge on the key developmental needs of emerging adults, how the adult criminal justice system can undermine healthy emerging adult development, and the social and biological factors that promote psychosocial maturity and desistance from crime. The review also examines what works to support emerging adults in successfully exiting the criminal justice system for good. Evidence-based programs and systemic approaches can ensure young people have the tools they need to not only avoid system involvement but to thrive as healthy and contributing members of society.