NCJ Number
81029
Date Published
1981
Length
21 pages
Annotation
The administrative assistant to the Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court discusses the need to find new solutions that will reduce and prevent crime and offers suggestions that would strengthen youths' ties to value-reinforcing groups, promote positive values in the schools, and use techniques for law-related education.
Abstract
The growing burden of crime is exemplified by a magazine survey revealing that 53 percent of Americans are afraid to walk at night in some areas within a mile of their homes. Many theories have tried to explain crime. Although alcoholism, poverty, and perceived social injustice all contribute to crime, the deeper force which is causing a breakdown of American society is the failure to transmit positive values, norms, and attachments from one generation to another. The deterioration of such traditional institutions as families, churches, and schools, which have perpetuated societal norms and values, has left a void which is being filled by such institutions as televisions and motion pictures. However, studies have shown that the holding of traditional values is strongly related to achievement. To reduce and prevent crime, institutions that encourage positive norms and a sense of personal responsibility should be promoted. Schools should strengthen and expand programs encouraging broad student participation. Other beneficial programs might include volunteer activities, community-focused youth participation projects, and organized religion and service groups. Schools should teach values such as honesty and appreciation of the interests of others. Neighborhood Watch programs and other community efforts to prevent crime should be encouraged. In addition, law-related education should be provided so that young people understand both the rights and the responsibilities of the constitution and legal system. These and other efforts are needed to strengthen the moral and ethical foundation of society. Footnotes are provided.