NCJ Number
183586
Journal
Corrections Today Volume: 62 Issue: 3 Dated: June 2000 Pages: 106-125
Date Published
June 2000
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This is an overview of Ohio’s Resiliency Program to help juvenile offenders change their lives.
Abstract
The resiliency concept as a treatment approach reframes a client’s life based on his or her strengths. Seven clusters of strength include insight, independence, relationships, initiative, creativity, humor, and morality. The Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections considers resiliency a component of restorative justice and it is the umbrella for programs offered to youthful offenders. Special emphasis is placed on strategies to overcome adversity, resist self-destructive behaviors, and lead constructive lives. Ohio’s program for juvenile offenders includes six phases: (1) Inmates’ Testimonials -- putting their life stories on paper; (2) Discussion of the Seven Clusters of Strength; (3) Damage vs. Challenge Model; (4) The Forgiveness Workshop; (5) Reframing; and (6) Survivors’ Pride. The resiliency concept can be replicated with minimal implementation costs, but investment in staff training is critical to its success. Proper staff training is the key to good programming and the health of the helper is crucial to positive youth outcomes. References