Before Their Crimes: A Conversation with Author Wendy Smith

On this week’s episode we are joined by Wendy Smith, author of the new book "Before Their Crimes: What We're Misunderstanding About Child Trauma, Youth Crime, and the Path to Healing."

Smith, who is a veteran psychotherapist and former professor and dean at the University of Southern California School of Social Work, talked about the visit to one of California’s prisons that sparked the idea for this book, which delves into the childhood experiences of dozens of former prisoners who were convicted and sentenced as teens. We also discussed what themes emerged from the experiences of her interview subjects, how she sees the book informing future policy reforms, and more. 

Wendy Smith is a retired clinical professor of social work and associate dean of curriculum development and assessment at the University of Southern California Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work. She had a private practice in psychotherapy for over 35 years, specializing in the treatment of individuals, couples, and survivors of childhood maltreatment.

Reading Room

Before Their Crimes: What We're Misunderstanding About Child Trauma, Youth Crime, and the Path to Healing.
https://www.bloomsbury.com/ca/before-their-crimes-9798881802035/

California Passes Bill Banning Transfer of Juveniles Under 16
https://imprintnews.org/news-2/california-passes-bill-banning-transfer-of-juveniles-under-16/32081

Senate Bill 672 Frequently Asked Questions
https://sd22.senate.ca.gov/senate-bill-672-frequently-asked-questions