NCJ Number
240168
Date Published
2012
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This paper describes the features and evaluation of a relatively new reentry model for juveniles released from residential custody, Parenting With Love and Limits (PLL).
Abstract
PLL uses a consultant to train and supervise therapists within the local community mental health center so they are prepared to deliver the PLL reentry curriculum, which includes parenting groups, individual therapy, family therapy, and case management. Initial results from a quasi-experimental program evaluation of the PLL reentry model are promising. The evaluation found lower rearrest rates for PLL (30 percent) compared with a control group (44 percent). In addition, PLL participants had lower rates of readjudication and felony readjudication (21 percent and 9 percent, respectively) in relation to the comparison group (28 percent and 19 percent, respectively). PLL participants also had shorter average lengths of stay in commitment and reentry overall (354 days for PLL participants and 425 days for the comparison group). At an average cost of $250 per day, immediate cost savings were $17,750 per youth. These positive outcomes were achieved largely due to the identification and addressing of barriers to effective reentry, with each community using PLL developers as consultants and catalysts for change. At the local level, the PLL reentry model has been used as an overlay blueprint for organizing and bringing the various reentry systems together. Different solutions for using PLL have been used, including early discharge ("earned release"), video conferencing, and "wrap-around" teams. The key stakeholders customized these concepts for their particular community while maintaining the model's integrity. Two case examples are provided of a boy and girl who participated in PLL programs in different communities. Recommendations address systems collaboration, bridging the distance between residential program and community, enhanced coordination between residential treatment and aftercare, institutionalization risks and early family engagement, and program accountability. 27 notes and 3 tables