NCJ Number
80279
Date Published
Unknown
Length
20 pages
Annotation
This study investigated long-term effects of Project CREST (Clinical Regional Support Teams), which used counseling techniques as a component in the rehabilitative programs of juveniles on State probation.
Abstract
A total of 61 subjects in a previously reported evaluation of Project CREST were followed during a 2-year period after treatment and compared on official acts of misconduct. Over the study period, the 30 youths who had received the counseling services in addition to probation were charged with significantly fewer acts of misconduct at a lower monthly rate than the 31 youths in the control group who had received probation but no counseling. Further analyses indicated no difference between the groups during the first year, but a significant difference was identified over the second year. The upturn in offense rate among the control group was attributed to the removal of probationary control. The study's results, in conjunction with previous evaluation findings, indicated that short-term professional counseling coupled with probation can have more immediate and longer lasting effects than probation alone in reducing juvenile misconduct. Tables and six references are appended. (Author abstract modified)