NCJ Number
148952
Date Published
1994
Length
213 pages
Annotation
After surveying the problem of juvenile crime and victimization, this catalog describes programs throughout the country designed to reduce juvenile crime and gang affiliation.
Abstract
A survey of the juvenile crime problem reveals a consensus among researchers that relatively few juveniles are responsible for the bulk of serious, violent juvenile crime and that other juveniles are the prime targets of such crime. Researchers also agree that guns exacerbate the problem, that violence is learned, and that children who grow up in poverty and without adequate parental supervision are at risk for later criminality. Other findings are that drugs accelerate a juvenile's crime rate, negative peer influences can lead to criminality, and juveniles who do poorly in school or drop out of school are at risk for criminal behavior. The core of this catalog consists of brief descriptions of 192 programs designed to divert at- risk juveniles from crime. The selected programs were gleaned from recommendations by experts in the field, lists compiled by other organizations, and programs that have won national or local recognition for excellence. One group of programs provides alternative leisure time, constructive activities for youth as an alternative to involvement in gangs and drug dealing. Another category of programs focuses on recidivism reduction through counseling, treatment, education, and job training either in residential facilities or day treatment programs. A third set of programs provides mentoring and adult role models for juveniles who receive little adult guidance and support in the home. Such programs focus on counseling; tutoring; alternative education; and after-school athletic, health, cultural, and vocational programs. Descriptions of programs developed and staffed by police officers include drug education, counseling, and after-school athletic activities. Other program categories aim to prevent and treat drug abuse and provide family support services. Appended regional list of programs