NCJ Number
133682
Journal
Juvenile and Family Court Journal Volume: 42 Issue: 4 Dated: (1991) Pages: 1-6
Date Published
1991
Length
6 pages
Annotation
The Bethesda Day Treatment Center (Pennsylvania) can serve as a model for structuring the systemic approach needed to address the chronic status offender problem.
Abstract
Employing a comprehensive array of counseling techniques to enhance life skills and employment opportunities, the Center provides intensive treatment for pre- and post-adjudicatory delinquents and status offenders referred by Family Court judges, school officials, families, and others. The program's goals are: (1) to stabilize the client's behavior by structuring time so as to minimize destructive behavior; (2) to assess the root causes for the client's behavior and family dysfunction and provide counseling; (3) to provide positive substitutes for antisocial behavior; and (4) provide individualized educational alternatives for those with academic failure. Healing for Bethesda's youth encompasses not only retribution, restitution, and reconciliation, but restoration of the juvenile as a contributing member of the community. 11 notes and appendix