NCJ Number
134532
Date Published
1991
Length
33 pages
Annotation
This working paper proposes a framework for a coherent youth corrections system that clearly links goals, decisionmaking, and intervention responses and that is coordinated by individualized case management; such a system will eliminate the overuse of juvenile correctional institutions and enhance the effectiveness, efficiency, equity, and accountability of youth corrections in many jurisdictions.
Abstract
Recent research indicates that costly juvenile correctional institutions continue to be used for large numbers of juvenile offenders, including many relatively minor offenders who do not appear to pose high risks to public safety. The reasons for this overuse of institutions include a lack of clear goals for youth corrections, inadequate decisionmaking, too few community-based alternatives to institutionalization, and a lack of coordination and evaluation. The proposed model would have the following series of characteristics: coordination; rational decisionmaking; an array of services; flexible funds; advocacy; and evaluation. In addition, objective information would be used for classification and assessment. The system would be based on the principles of offender accountability, protection of public safety, and development of individual competency. Figures and 69 references