NCJ Number
100307
Journal
Canadian Journal of Criminology Volume: 27 Issue: 4 Dated: (October 1985) Pages: 467-476
Date Published
1985
Length
10 pages
Annotation
The effect of conceptual level (CL), measured by integrative complexity and interpersonal maturity, on responses to the correctional environment was assessed in 60 Canadian male and female juvenile offenders assigned to either a secure or open detention home.
Abstract
Analyses indicate that low CL juveniles in high (secure) structure environments perceived themselves as more independent than did low CL juveniles in low structure environments. High CL subjects in low structure settings were rated as being more responsible and conforming and as demonstrating greater social control relative to high CL subjects in high structure settings. Further, high CL juveniles in the high structure environment received more staff discipline and spent more time out of the regular detention program. Further, mismatched juveniles (i.e., high CL-high structure, low CL-low structure) were more frequently found in training schools than were matched juveniles, while matched juveniles were more frequently placed in community group homes at followup than were mismatched juveniles. Overall, results provide support for the conceptual level matching model that holds that less mature persons profit more from high levels of structure while more mature persons profit more from lower levels of structure. 46 references.