What is forensic child and youth care?

Forensic child and youth care is a discipline within pedagogical sciences that focuses on developmental problems in a legal context. It concerns children and families where there are concerns about safety and where youth care services or the justice system are involved.

Closely connected to societal developments

With her chair, Leijten will invest in a forensic child and youth care that is closely connected to societal developments. ‘Many parents are worried about what the world will look like when their children are adults. In addition, young people witness societal developments that reduce their chances of a safe and healthy future. In times of crises, children and youth in the most vulnerable positions suffer the most. They have insufficient access to protection and effective care.’

‘That is why it is especially important now to invest in knowledge about how societal changes shape child development, and how all children and youth can be effectively supported . Unequal access to effective care increases social inequalities.’

This is what makes this chair so special, according to Leijten. ‘Forensic child and youth care serves the children and young people who may need the pedagogical sciences the most. I look forward to working with colleagues in the Forensic Child and Youth Care programme group to use our expertise to improve the lives of children and young people with complex problems.’