PDI is used for which types of cases in disposition proceedings?

PDI is used for which types of cases in disposition proceedings?

• A. Abuse and neglect cases
• B. Delinquent and status offender cases
• C. Juvenile traffic violations
• D. Mental health evaluations

Answer: (B)

Pre-Dispositional Investigation, or PDI, is used in disposition proceedings for delinquent and status offender cases. It gathers comprehensive background information—family, school, peers, prior behavior, mental health, substance use, and available supports—to help the court tailor a disposition that addresses the youth’s needs and reduces risk. The resulting report informs decisions such as probation, counseling, restitution, community service, or placement. In contrast, abuse and neglect cases rely on social studies focused on safety and permanency, and mental health evaluations assess treatment needs or competency rather than shaping the disposition itself.

Pre-Dispositional Investigation, or PDI, is used in disposition proceedings for delinquent and status offender cases. It gathers comprehensive background information—family, school, peers, prior behavior, mental health, substance use, and available supports—to help the court tailor a disposition that addresses the youth’s needs and reduces risk. The resulting report informs decisions such as probation, counseling, restitution, community service, or placement. In contrast, abuse and neglect cases rely on social studies focused on safety and permanency, and mental health evaluations assess treatment needs or competency rather than shaping the disposition itself.