Helen Thissen

The Virginia Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) is a Commonwealth agency dedicated to supporting the safety, accountability, and rehabilitation of justice-involved youth across Virginia. Through a comprehensive juvenile justice framework, DJJ emphasizes education, rehabilitative care, structured placement, and program implementation designed to help young people develop the skills needed for positive behavior change and successful reintegration into their communities. Central to this approach is addressing the underlying factors that contribute to delinquent behavior, including emotional regulation, decision-making, and interpersonal conflict.

Anger management is a critical component of DJJ’s rehabilitative philosophy. Many youth involved in the juvenile justice system struggle with impulse control, unresolved trauma, and difficulty expressing emotions in healthy ways. DJJ programs focus on helping residents recognize triggers, manage intense emotions, and develop constructive coping strategies that reduce aggressive or harmful behaviors. These efforts are integrated into educational and therapeutic services that promote accountability while building resilience and self-control.

DJJ also places strong emphasis on family engagement and transparency throughout the juvenile justice process. Families are supported through clear expectations, orientation materials, visitation opportunities, and accessible resources that help them stay involved in their child’s rehabilitation. Policies and guidelines are designed to ensure safety, fairness, and dignity for youth, families, and victims alike, while maintaining compliance with state and federal standards.

In addition to direct services, DJJ provides public access to data, reports, and agency updates to promote accountability and informed decision-making. By combining structured supervision, evidence-based programming, and supportive family involvement, the Virginia Department of Juvenile Justice works to reduce recidivism, address behavioral challenges such as unmanaged anger, and guide youth toward healthier, more productive futures.