diagnostic center | Definition

Doc's CJ Glossary by Adam J. McKee
Course: Introduction

A diagnostic center is a center where juveniles (and adults in some jurisdictions) are sent for psychological, educational, and security evaluations before being sent to a long-term placement facility.


A diagnostic center is a type of facility used by the criminal justice system to provide comprehensive evaluations and assessments of juveniles (and sometimes adults) who are facing criminal charges. These centers are designed to provide a wide range of services, including psychological evaluations, educational assessments, and security evaluations. The goal is to determine the appropriate course of action for each individual and to provide the necessary support and resources to help them succeed.

One of the primary functions of a diagnostic center is to provide psychological evaluations of individuals who have been accused of committing a crime. This may include assessments of their mental health, personality, and behavioral patterns, as well as their risk for reoffending. These evaluations are essential for determining the appropriate course of action for each individual, including the level of supervision and support they may require.

Another important function of a diagnostic center is to provide educational assessments for individuals who have been accused of committing a crime. This may include assessments of their academic skills and abilities, as well as their individual learning styles and needs. These assessments are important for determining the appropriate educational programming and support that each individual may require.

Security evaluations are also an important component of a diagnostic center. These evaluations are used to assess an individual’s level of risk and to determine the appropriate level of security necessary to ensure their safety and the safety of others. This may include assessments of their history of violence or other criminal behavior, as well as their current physical and mental health status.

In addition to these assessments and evaluations, diagnostic centers also provide a wide range of support and resources to individuals who are facing criminal charges. This may include counseling and therapy services, as well as educational and vocational programming. The goal is to provide individuals with the tools and skills they need to succeed once they are released from the diagnostic center and placed in a long-term placement facility.


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Last Modified: 04/20/2023

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