NCJ Number
126602
Journal
Journal of Correctional Education Volume: 41 Issue: 3 Dated: (September 1990) Pages: 124-133
Date Published
1990
Length
10 pages
Annotation
The purpose of the study presented is to investigate the intellectual and achievement characteristics of adolescent juvenile offenders and implications for educational programming. The study of adjudicated adolescents is based on data from 104 selected case files of adolescents that were analyzed based on selected relevant variables, including demographic variables, measures of intelligence and achievement, and types and frequency of offenses.
Abstract
One of the populations most neglected by special educators is the adolescent who has been adjudicated by the juvenile justice system. Two specific contributing factors to delinquency have surfaced as potentially significant: (1) the educational environment of the adolescent delinquent; and (2) the academic demands that are made on the adolescent within this environment. Eight tables show the significant relationships found among 11 of the variables reviewed in this study, such as achievement in school, intelligence, educational category, sex, socioeconomic status, behavioral offenses, and type of charge plus number of adults in the home by type of charge. This study basically supports research previously completed. Several characteristics remain constant in the configuration of the delinquent youth. Academic skills remain deficient regardless of education classification. Intelligence quotients hover around the low average range. Limited success in the educational arena make it more likely for recognition to be sought elsewhere, often through delinquent activities. Educational programming therefore needs to address the multineeds of youth and should include cooperation from all agencies responsible for this population. 8 tables and 57 references