Examining the Use of Career Development Curricula in Adolescent Residential Treatment Programs

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.52935/23.19315.9

Keywords:

career, residential treatment, career development, juvenile justice

Abstract

Research suggests adolescents leaving residential treatment programs have higher levels of unemployment
and homelessness than average. This exploratory study examined what types of career development curricula
are being used in residential treatment programs. The findings suggest that most residential treatment
programs use little to no career development curriculum. The long-term goal is to support the critical need
and development of a specialized career development curriculum for adolescents residing in residential group
home programs.

Author Biographies

  • David Scott, Clemson University

    David A. Scott, PhD, LPC,

    David A. Scott, PhD, LPC, is currently a quantitative researcher, licensed professional counselor, and associate professor at Clemson University. Dr. Scott has worked in a variety of settings over the past 20 years which include an inpatient hospital, outpatient counseling center and in private practice with his wife. Before entering academia, he was one of the directors for a large non-profit agency that provided a continuum of care services for at-risk youth and their families.

  • Jake Gilstrap, Clemson University

    Jake Gilstrap
    Jake Gilstrap is a research assistant and undergraduate student at Clemson University. Mr. Gilstrap is a financial management major with a minor in accounting.

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Published

03/12/2026

How to Cite

Examining the Use of Career Development Curricula in Adolescent Residential Treatment Programs. (2026). Journal of Applied Juvenile Justice Services, 37(1), 73-82. https://doi.org/10.52935/23.19315.9

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