NCJ Number
88552
Editor(s)
V L Stewart
Date Published
1981
Length
242 pages
Annotation
This third volume of a five-volume series on troubled children in various cultures focuses on Italy, Jamaica, Japan, the Philippines, Saudi Arabia, South Australia, and Sweden.
Abstract
The chapter on Italy portrays this country's restraint in usurping the responsibilities of parents through family intervention. When intervention is undertaken, it proceeds gradually from gentleness to firmness as the child's behavior becomes more serious. Juvenile court panels are composed of multidisciplinary representatives. The discussion of Jamaica traces the development of services for children in need and in trouble over the last 40 years. A description is given of the steps taken to overcome problems in coordinating the various forces in government and the community and in developing innovative services appropriate in changing times. A strong effort has been made to strenghten family life and keep troubled children in their own homes. The chapter on Japan describes a system in which the interdependence of law and the behavioral sciences is reflected in addressing child neglect and juvenile delinquency. The use of volunteers and the broad involvement of the community in helping troubled children are emphasized. The Philippines has designated the 1980's as 'The Decade of the Filipino Child.' The chapters presents a detailed statement that describes the 11-point National Plan of Action for the Decade. Adherence to the moral codes of Islam is viewed as the surest way to protect Saudi Arabian children from the harmful effects of rapid social transition. Vast resources are being used to provide a network of health, education, and welfare services for Saudi citizens. While not denying a child the right to have issues settled by a judge, South Australia has established a process for screening and hearing juvenile issues through panels composed of police and representatives of the Department of Community Services. This concept of diversion has been mandated in legislation. The presentation on Sweden provides a definitive analysis of youth conflicts in a welfare state, and an approach to address these conflicts is portrayed in a social policy that integrates the basic forces of the community: the home, school, social agencies, and other organizations. References and tabular data accompany some chapters, and a subject index is provided. For volume 2, see NCJ 88551.