NCJ Number
131339
Date Published
1990
Length
68 pages
Annotation
A review of the literature was conducted to evaluate new and innovative programs designed to combat the drug problem.
Abstract
The focus was on drug education programs, new approaches to punishment and correction, and community involvement initiatives. Specific attention was directed to the following areas: (1) education programs which aim to teach young people about the harmful effects of drugs before they are exposed to drugs; (2) new approaches to punishment and correction, specifically programs which deviate from traditional forms of incarceration; and (3) community involvement and incentive programs that Federal, State, and local governments may have developed to generate community support of and participation in the apprehension of drug dealers and users. Three types of drug education programs are noted: those supplying factual information about drugs (prevention); those dealing with attitudes, feelings, and values (prevention); and those focusing more directly on behavior (intervention). The review of new approaches to punishment and correction reveals the following efforts: statewide approaches to punishment and correction; planning, purchasing, and utilizing alternative institutional methods; community service orders; intensive probation and parole; electronic surveillance and monitoring; house arrest and home incarceration; prison diversion; split sentences; shock incarceration; restitution; community-based correctional alternatives; intermediate punishment; boot camps; and fines. Many programs that have been implemented nationwide, in Pennsylvania, and in large cities are noted, although data on program effectiveness are not yet available. 146 references