NCJ Number
152340
Date Published
1994
Length
22 pages
Annotation
Based on findings from randomized experiments, this paper reviews juvenile delinquency prevention methods that are targeted on the development of children and families, and that can be implemented between conception and age 5-6.
Abstract
These methods can be considered early developmental prevention to distinguish them from situational prevention, social prevention, and prevention through criminal justice system measures. The discussion notes that the stability of antisocial behavior from childhood to adulthood suggests that delinquency prevention efforts should be implemented as early in a child's life as possible. Adolescent pregnancy, drug abuse in pregnancy, and perinatal complications such as low birth weight are risk factors for a variety of undesirable outcomes, including low intelligence and attainment, hyperactivity and impulsivity, child behavior problems, aggression, and juvenile delinquency. Therefore, prevention programs should target these risk factors and follow up the children into adolescence and adulthood. Home visiting programs, trying to improve child-rearing methods and parental knowledge about child development, seem to be quite effective. Other approaches should include training in cognitive- behavioral interpersonal skills to improve self-control, preschool intellectual enrichment programs to develop cognitive skills, and training of parents. Because of the link between crime and many other social problems, any measure that succeeds in reducing crime will have additional benefits as well. 81 references