NCJ Number
164254
Date Published
1996
Length
8 pages
Annotation
The need for young people to be actively involved in crime prevention is examined in this report on juvenile crime and attitudes, benefits of crime prevention programs that involve young people, and youth-adult roles and relationships.
Abstract
In 1994, juveniles accounted for just 14 percent of violent crimes and 25 percent of property crimes resolved by law enforcement. Statistics for 1995 showed a 2.9-percent decrease in juvenile arrests for violent crimes, the first decline since 1987. Juveniles are both offenders and victims and are more likely to be victims than any other age group. Crime prevention programs should be developed that engage the attention and interests of young people. Such programs should have a plan to attract participants and supporters, involve young people at all levels, address problems and issues perceived as important by young people, offer opportunities for young people to make their own decisions, include learning components, promote responsibility, enhance self-esteem, and build on young people's need for friendship. Adults should stress the collaborative nature of programs, listen to young people and their concerns, teach and guide young people, and help young people obtain community resources and support. Diverse national programs are highlighted that provide activities, opportunities to learn leadership and other life skills, positive adult role models, and community service opportunities for young people. These programs include Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Boy Scouts of America, Boys and Girls Clubs of America, Drug Abuse Resistance Education, Gang Resistance Education and Training, Girl Scouts of the USA, the National Recreation and Park Association, Optimist International, the Police Athletic League, and the Youth as Resources Project. Components of successful youth-oriented programs are identified as resources, relationships, responsibilities, and rewards. 9 references