Beyond the Margins

Author/ Authors/ Presenter/ Presenters/ Panelists:

Sarah Pozdal, Governors State UniversityFollow

Type of Presentation

Poster Session

Location

University Library

Start Date

4-10-2026 2:00 PM

End Date

4-10-2026 3:15 PM

Abstract

Beyond the Margins is a new approach to recidivism. With a trauma-informed, holistic approach, the project aims to decrease rated of recidivism among youth in the Chicago land area. This study is currently in its pilot phase, but it shows much promise for future large-scale programs. By focusing on a therapeutic setting with a focus on artistic expression and linguistic development, Beyond the Margins provides a new opportunity for adolescents who have committed a crime. This could ultimately lead us to better recovery options for juveniles with criminal history and can help to let these individuals break the cycles that they are stuck in. An analysis of this project was completed, and it has already shown success. However, it is also important to consider that this program has just begun, so no data on rates of recidivism is available yet. As this program continues, the goal is to see lower rates of recidivism in youth and to watch these individuals grow and prosper. There are many factors that contribute to crime such as poverty and economic hardship, social groups, and family environments. There is more work that needs to be done to prevent crime from happening in the first place through better resources and support for our youth, but while we work towards fixing those issues, Beyond the Margins is providing an innovative new perspective on fighting recidivism in youth.

Faculty / Staff Sponsor

Sara Jozwik

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Apr 10th, 2:00 PM Apr 10th, 3:15 PM

Beyond the Margins

University Library

Beyond the Margins is a new approach to recidivism. With a trauma-informed, holistic approach, the project aims to decrease rated of recidivism among youth in the Chicago land area. This study is currently in its pilot phase, but it shows much promise for future large-scale programs. By focusing on a therapeutic setting with a focus on artistic expression and linguistic development, Beyond the Margins provides a new opportunity for adolescents who have committed a crime. This could ultimately lead us to better recovery options for juveniles with criminal history and can help to let these individuals break the cycles that they are stuck in. An analysis of this project was completed, and it has already shown success. However, it is also important to consider that this program has just begun, so no data on rates of recidivism is available yet. As this program continues, the goal is to see lower rates of recidivism in youth and to watch these individuals grow and prosper. There are many factors that contribute to crime such as poverty and economic hardship, social groups, and family environments. There is more work that needs to be done to prevent crime from happening in the first place through better resources and support for our youth, but while we work towards fixing those issues, Beyond the Margins is providing an innovative new perspective on fighting recidivism in youth.