YOUTH-AT-RISK - A NEGLECTED SPECIAL POPULATION INTRODUCTION TO THE SUBJECT AND AN INVITATION

• NCJ Number: 67989
• Author(s): K I LINGLE
• Date Published: 1980
• Length: 8 pages
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

THIS OPINION PAPER, WHICH IS DIRECTED TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC, EMPHASIZES THE NEED TO DEVELOP REHABILITATIVE PROGRAMS THAT ARE ALTERNATIVES TO INCARCERATION FOR YOUTH-AT-RISK.

Abstract

YOUTH-AT-RISK ARE ATYPICAL OR MALADAPTIVE YOUTH WHOSE BEHAVIORAL PATTERNS INCLUDE SCHOOL FAILURE, LACK OF EMPLOYMENT, AND INADEQUATE PREPARATION FOR ADULT LIFE. THE TYPOLOGY INCLUDES STATUS OFFENDERS, VICTIMS OF CRIME, STATION ADJUSTED YOUTH, PROBATIONERS, AND THE MENTALLY ILL. EXTANT PROGRAMS OF REHABILITATION SHOULD BE STUDIED. PROGRAMS THAT PROVIDE YOUTH WITH OPEN SPACE, OUTDOOR EDUCATION, AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR ESTABLISHING CONFIDENCE IN THEMSELVES AND IN THEIR RELATIONSHIPS WITH ADULTS SHOULD BE STIMULATED. THE LEADERSHIP CALIBRE OF STAFF PERSONNEL IS THE MOST IMPORTANT REQUISITE OF SUCCESS. FINALLY, THE NATIONAL CONSORTIUM ON CAMPING AND OUTDOOR EDUCATION FOR YOUTH-AT-RISK SHOULD BE THE CENTRAL AGENCY FOR DEVELOPING MULTIFUNCTIONAL, INTERDISCIPLINARY IDEAS AND PROGRAMS. THE MAILING ADDRESS OF THE CONSORTIUM IS PROVIDED. (MFE)