NCJ Number
88562
Journal
Journal of Adolescence Volume: 6 Issue: 1 Dated: (March 1983) Pages: 27-41
Date Published
1983
Length
15 pages
Annotation
Social work with adolescent delinquents in low-intensity treatment groups requires the worker to assess realistically the needs of the clients, to define achievable goals for the group, and to accomplish numerous practical tasks in preparing and operating the program.
Abstract
These groups typically involve eight members who meet with two adult leaders once a week for about 6 months. Such group work receives fewer resources than residential care or more intensive projects involving intermediate treatment, yet permits the development of many of the client-worker relationship problems encountered in those settings. One reason for the problems of the low-intensity groups is that false expectations were initially raised regarding the saving of time, the appropriateness of the treatment, and the ease of implementing the concept. Nevertheless, leaders can prepare positively for these programs. Before the group first meets, the leader should make the appropriate practical arrangements, prepare the negotiations within the agency involved, prepare emotionally for the task, and prepare the program. As the group develops, the goal of leadership by the social worker should be democratic participation, although the worker will initially need to use an authoritarian style. Although low-intensity groups are unlikely to produce major personal change, they can offer group members a sense of belonging, the achievement of a particular task or skill, and occasional feelings of self-worth. They also show adolescents that social workers offer more than material help or a favorable court report. One table, a list of 32 references, and an appendix presenting a leadership exercise are included.