NCJ Number
105476
Date Published
1984
Length
193 pages
Annotation
This report considers issues and operational problems in juvenile predisposition and diversion programs in Canada.
Abstract
The targeting policies and premises underlying primary, secondary, and tertiatry prevention activities are examined; the implications of these policies for client identification, recruitment, and engagement are discussed. A number of diversion programs are described, including those using compensatory or accountability strategies such as victim restitution and community service, those emphasizing community development, and those treating the individual youth. Organizational features that impinge on program operations and the quality of intervention are discussed, including administrative structure, program-justice system linkages, resource allocation, and staff roles. A review of some Canadian program evaluations highlights the relationship between objectives and strategies and the methodological problems inherent in such evaluations. Finally, recommendations for improving juvenile programming are presented. 262 references.