NCJ Number
155135
Journal
Journal of Criminal Justice Volume: 23 Issue: 2 Dated: (1995) Pages: 127-141
Date Published
1995
Length
15 pages
Annotation
The Second Chance Program, a program using social skills training, preemployment training, and job placement opportunities, was assessed with respect to its effectiveness in reducing recidivism among juvenile delinquents over a 1-year followup period.
Abstract
The youths were referred by juvenile court personnel and were considered to be one step away from the State training school or waiver to adult court. Five groups of youths took part in the program beginning in late fall 1990 through June 1992. Each session lasted 16 weeks. The analysis compared 28 youths who started but did not complete the program, 57 youths who completed the program, 56 nonparticipants matched with those who did complete it, and 85 youths randomly selected from those receiving traditional juvenile court services. Results revealed no reduction in official delinquent and criminal offending among the participants. However, the offenses committed by the Second Chance group were less serious than those committed by the others. Findings provided reason to be optimistic concerning the program's ability to help troubled youths. Tables, figure, and 47 references