NCJ Number
101492
Date Published
1986
Length
241 pages
Annotation
Following a literature review on family variables in juvenile delinquency, this book discusses selected family factors in delinquency etiology, critically reviews family treatment programs aimed at delinquency, and proposes a delinquency intervention model that focuses on family influences.
Abstract
The literature review concentrates on family structural and functioning variables. Distinctive functioning patterns in delinquents' families are then identified from the research, and the family's influence in the socialization and resocialization of juveniles is noted. The review of family treatment programs considers the historical development of delinquency rehabilitation, evaluative research evidence, and the family treatment of delinquency from behaviorial and nonbehavioral perspectives. Further research directions are recommended. A central aspect of the proposed intervention model is assessment of the delinquent, the family, and the environment. This would generally be done by a probation agency, which would then develop a rehabilitation plan from the psychosocial assessment. This plan would necessarily focus on modifying the youth's behavior through revisions of family dysfunctioning and the juvenile's exposure to debilitating environmental influences. The rehabilitation plan and the youth's behavior would be closely monitored. Approximately 220 references and subject index.