therapeutic jurisprudence
Pronunciation: jur-is-PROO-dens
A framework examining how legal processes and court procedures can promote healing and positive outcomes for youth.
Full Definition
Therapeutic jurisprudence is an interdisciplinary approach that examines the therapeutic and anti-therapeutic consequences of legal processes, particularly in juvenile justice and family court systems. This framework emphasizes how court procedures, judicial interactions, and legal decisions can either promote or hinder psychological healing and positive behavioral change in youth. In child and adolescent psychiatry, therapeutic jurisprudence principles influence mental health court programs, juvenile drug courts, and other specialty court interventions. The approach emphasizes procedural fairness, respect for individual dignity, meaningful participation, and coordination between legal and mental health professionals to achieve both legal and therapeutic goals.
Usage
Usage note: Emphasize collaboration between legal and clinical professionals when discussing therapeutic jurisprudence approaches.
In Context
- "The mental health court applied therapeutic jurisprudence principles to engage the adolescent in treatment planning." — Court consultation report
- "Therapeutic jurisprudence training helped judges understand the mental health impacts of court procedures on youth." — Training program evaluation