NCJ Number
98842
Journal
Canadian Journal of Criminology Volume: 27 Issue: 2 Dated: (April 1985) Pages: 161-177
Date Published
1985
Length
17 pages
Annotation
This paper describes the objectives and services of the Craigwood-Bridgeway program (Ontario, Canada) -- geared to a difficult adolescent client population -- and discusses results of a 3-year review of the program's effectiveness.
Abstract
The program addresses the high recidivism rates noted in graduates of Canadian training schools and has three treatment components -- a community-based program, a high-structured 10-bed residential unit, and a low-structured 10-bed residential unit. Data analysis of clients' family backgrounds, court histories, involvement with mental health systems, and educational histories showed that these children had long-standing problems. Virtually all residents had prior experience with treatment agencies, half had previously been placed in secure settings, and clinical assessments had been ordered for 90 percent. Followup data revealed that a third of the residents were involved in some form of antisocial behavior through a new charge within a year of discharge. At 1-year followup, a high percentage of juveniles were found to be involved in either school (70 percent) or work (15.5 percent). A recidivism rate of only 16 percent was found, much lower than that usually reported in the literature. Tables and 47 references are provided.