NCJ Number
138738
Date Published
1991
Length
163 pages
Annotation
In 1990, South Dakota initiated a research project to identify the numbers and types of youth who were at risk of failing to become economically and socially self-sufficient adults. Social indicator data were collected and previous reports reviewed in order to identify those conditions in greatest need of attention from the State.
Abstract
Three interrelated factors present the most serious risk: economically disadvantaged children, family stress, and hardships associated with minority (in this case, Native American) status. Other identified factors that, combined in various degrees, can limit a youth's potential for success, include educational disadvantages, alcohol and drug abuse, health care deficiencies, juvenile delinquency, mental health problems, and adolescent pregnancy. The recommendations offered by the authors of this study were categorized as State priorities, benchmarks, planning and coordination, information on children and families, program evaluation, key predictor and risk factor strategies, minority status strategies, prevention and early intervention, and funding strategies. 10 appendixes