Which of the following statements about referrals in juvenile justice is true?

In the context of juvenile justice, the statement about documenting and referring all unusual behaviors is accurate because it highlights the importance of early intervention and ongoing support for youth who may be exhibiting concerning behaviors. Documenting these behaviors ensures that there is a record of incidents that might warrant further evaluation or support. This proactive approach can help address underlying issues before they escalate into more serious problems, promoting better outcomes for the youth involved.

When unusual behaviors are documented, it allows for a comprehensive assessment of the juvenile's needs, guiding appropriate interventions. This can also aid in identifying patterns that may not be immediately apparent, enabling staff to make informed decisions regarding the youth's care and necessary referrals to additional services, such as counseling or behavioral programs.

In contrast, delaying referrals for observation could result in missed opportunities to support the youth, while not referring cases where behavior improves could overlook important earlier signs. Furthermore, limiting referrals solely to serious offenses may ignore various other less severe incidents that, if addressed early, could prevent future delinquency. Thus, the emphasis on documentation and referral for all unusual behaviors stands out as a best practice in the juvenile justice system.