The iatrogenic effects of interventions in youth centres: A threat to teenage clients?
In Quebec and also in the U.S., adolescents treated in groups rather than as individuals tend to display severe behavioural problems following interventions provided by public institutions (including youth centres). Certain researchers have questioned the benefits of group interventions among these youth. According to the researchers, the effects of these interventions may be just the opposite of what is desired. Here they are referring to the interventions’ iatrogenic effects, meaning negative effects produced by the treatment and in certain circumstances increases in deviant or delinquent behaviours following group intervention among these teenagers. This thesis raises ethical, political and social issues that cannot be overlooked. Their legitimacy is drawn from scientific studies and knowledge, and it is upon these grounds that the debate should take place. Our proposal in this article is to take a closer look at this assumption. First, based on recent and rigorous studies, we would like to submit various points of view regarding its scientific foundations. Then we will present contrasting outcomes from a series of projects that tested the hypothesis, while paying particular attention to their methodological qualities. This critical look will allow us to develop a better understanding of the current state of knowledge on the iatrogenic effects of group interventions among young delinquents.