NCJ Number
164778
Journal
Journal of Child and Adolescent Substance Abuse Volume: 5 Issue: 1 Dated: (1996) Pages: 27-53
Date Published
1996
Length
27 pages
Annotation
This article reports the results of an expanded study of the predictors of recidivism to a juvenile assessment center in Hillsborough County, Fla., that involved more than 5,200 youths processed at the center from May 5, 1993, through December 31, 1994.
Abstract
Variables measured were the demographic and educational features of the juveniles, arrest charges upon entering the center, previous referral history, mental health and substance abuse treatment history, and self-reported alcohol or other drug use. The 5,253 juveniles accounted for 9,506 registrations between May 5, 1993, and December 31, 1994. Overall, 37 percent of the juveniles were readmitted to the center following their first registration. A stepwise, multiple regression analysis was performed to determine the predictors of the youths' recidivism. Overall, the various predictor variables accounted for 28 percent of the variance in recidivism. Regarding demographic factors, younger juveniles and those who are black were significantly more likely to recidivate than older predominantly white youths. A dependency history that involved referrals to the Florida Department of Health and Rehabilitative Services for neglect or physical abuse was positively related to recidivism. In addition, previous delinquency referrals for property and violent offenses were positively related to recidivism. These findings highlight the potential value of prevention and early intervention in the lives of high-risk youths to reduce their likelihood of becoming involved in the juvenile justice system. 6 tables and 41 references