NCJ Number
206060
Date Published
April 2003
Length
41 pages
Annotation
This report presents a meta-analytical synthesis of the literature on the effectiveness of treating juvenile offenders.
Abstract
Data were obtained from studies that directly measured the effect of treatment on recidivism and other key outcomes through the use of control/comparison groups. The literature review encompassed 200 treatment programs that have targeted juveniles who have engaged in criminal behavior. The literature review found that although treatment does have a positive impact on juvenile offenders, various program characteristics (e.g., integrity, dosage, and targets) as well as its clients (e.g., age and risk) significantly affected the program's therapeutic outcome. This report offers recommendations for program design and delivery based on the 200 evaluations reviewed. The study recommends that programs use multiple forms of counseling (individual, group, and family) and that juveniles be screened for anger issues and receive anger management when indicated. Educators should be directly involved in the treatment program with school performance and attendance being a focus of the treatment when appropriate. Antisocial attitudes should be targeted in treatment, including attention to respect for authority and the criminal justice system. Cognitive skills should be taught to youth in order to improve their problem solving, perspectives, and goal-setting. Social skills should be enhanced to address communication strategies and the ability to work within groups. Other recommendations focus on communication within families, parental skill development, increasing employment potential, limiting program length to 6 months, the development of program manuals and staff training and supervision, early intervention, family involvement, and community participation. 9 tables and 182 references