NCJ Number
96015
Journal
Humanist Dated: (November/December 1984) Pages: 5-8,31
Date Published
1984
Length
6 pages
Annotation
Fear of crime has been found to be a major issue troubling Americans. Youths, primarily poor, cause the most fear of harm, and individuals under age 25 are responsible for about 80 percent of all urban crime.
Abstract
In view of these facts, the establishment of a youth fellowship similar to Alcoholics Anonymous has been suggested. In such a self-help group, youths could meet to discuss problems. Unlike youth agencies, employment services, and diversion programs, such a youth fellowship could offer values rather than utilitarian services. The principles that guide and unify Alcoholics Anonymous are so broad that it is necessary only to substitute the particular problem behavior for the word 'alcoholics.' These principles emphasize that members must admit that their behavior is destroying their lives, that they have lost control over their problem behavior, and that they need help. They take moral inventory of themselves and accept responsibility for helping other members. Initially, such fellowships may require outside support, but would eventually become a self-sustaining nationwide network. In this International Year of Youth small steps could be taken to implement such a network.