Quebec’s Ombudsman and children’s rights advocates argue invasive body checks do lasting harm to vulnerable young people. The approach is unnecessarily harsh when alternatives exist. Children’s rights advocates warn of lasting trauma tied to these humiliating procedures.

The Director of Youth Protection (DPJ) now plans to allow such intrusive measures only in emergencies, marking a clear change. This narrowed use aims to balance safety with care for young people’s mental health. Courts and oversight bodies are urged to enforce stricter limits in these cases.

The Association des centres jeunesse du Québec supports this shift fully. They say cautious reforms protect minors better while keeping centres secure. Youth centres in regions like the Mauricie-Centre-du-Québec have already seen improved outcomes by cutting back on these searches. Redirecting focus from harsh measures to prevention training is proving more effective. Recovery matters most in these settings.

Critics insist the old ways won’t work . They argue less dramatic steps achieve more. Adequate training and child-first policies must replace outdated tactics. A gentler approach yields real results.