NCJ Number
161515
Date Published
1992
Length
18 pages
Annotation
The New Mexico Center for Dispute Resolution completed the first year of its Violence Intervention Project to provide a cost-effective option for juvenile offenders likely to be incarcerated for drug-related or violent offenses, to provide surveillance and risk control strategies for juvenile offenders, and to improve cognitive and social skills of juvenile offenders to enhance their ability to function effectively in interpersonal relationships.
Abstract
Project components included an intensive probation program, a cognitive skills curriculum, and group counseling. New Mexico's Juvenile Probation and Parole Office provided the services of a full-time probation officer who had intensive contact with clients. Three cycles of cognitive skills classes were delivered to juveniles and parents during the first year. While client satisfaction was not measured by the program evaluation, anecdotal reports indicated parents received support and skills they previously did not have access to. The cognitive skills curriculum for both juveniles and parents focused on understanding violence, violence causes, interpersonal violence, the link between drugs and violence, conflict management, anger management, communication skills, empathy, and problem-solving. A therapist provided approximately 50 hours of group counseling during the grant period and an additional 50 hours of individual and group counseling as needed. Data collection and evaluation forms are included.