Adjustment Disorder in Adolescence: A Case Study from a Juvenile Custodial Setting

Abstract

This clinical case study explores the psychological evaluation and therapeutic management of a 16-year-old male, Mr. A, diagnosed with adjustment disorder with Depressed Mood following his detainment in a juvenile center due to a false legal accusation. The case presents a detailed account of the client’s psychosocial background, emotional struggles, and the adverse impact of abrupt environmental changes during adolescence. Emphasis is placed on the interplay between family dynamics, academic aspirations, and the client’s emotional response to the stressor. A comprehensive, developmentally sensitive treatment plan was implemented, incorporating cognitive-behavioral therapy, emotional regulation strategies, family engagement, and supportive therapy. The intervention aimed to alleviate distress, foster resilience, and facilitate reintegration into normal life. This case highlights the importance of early psychological support for adolescents facing legal and emotional turmoil and underscores the value of structured interventions within custodial settings to prevent long-term psychological sequelae.