This report presents findings from a 4-year evaluation of two experimental intensive aftercare programs designed to help delinquent youth from Detroit and Pittsburgh return to their homes following residential placements.
Approximately 100 youths were randomly assigned either to the experimental program in their city or to regular forms of postrelease supervision. The intensive aftercare supervision included prerelease contacts between the aftercare worker, the youth, and the family; an intensive level of supervision and counseling; efforts to resolve family problems and improve functioning; efforts to involve youth in community services; and employment of highly motivated caseworkers. Findings from the evaluation showed that neither experimental program had much impact on the behavior of participating youth in terms of rearrests, self-reported offenses, or drug use during the 12-month follow-up period. Youth in the experimental programs also showed no more school or community involvement than controls. There was some evidence, although it was inconsistent, that the experimental programs had a positive effect on participants' personal goals, sense of self-efficacy, and coping skills. 10 tables, 34 references, and 1 appendix