Implementation Science. Literature Review: A Product of the Model Programs Guide

Implementation science is about finding ways to integrate research evidence into decisions made in real-world settings. The overall goal of implementation science in the juvenile justice field is to find different strategies to encourage and facilitate the use of research on what works and what doesn't work, in order to improve the policies and practices that directly affect at-risk and justice-involved youths. The aim is to provide evidence-based treatment and services to youths, to improve their lives and reduce their involvement in the justice system. It is important for policymakers and practitioners in the juvenile justice system to use available research to inform their decisions about youth programming. It is equally important for researchers to give consideration to the translation and dissemination of their research, so that practitioners and policymakers have an opportunity to access, understand, and apply research findings to everyday practice.