NCJ Number
95181
Editor(s)
R A Mathias
Date Published
1984
Length
12 pages
Annotation
Juvenile correctional sanctions should prepare both the offender and the community for the delinquent's eventual reintegration into community life.
Abstract
Although reintegrative programs use many methods and styles, they all prepare youths for increments of responsibility and freedom in the community, facilitate client-community interaction, and work both with the offender and targeted community support systems to facilitate the youth's successful reintegration. They also develop new resources and supports where needed and monitor and test the youths and the community on their ability to deal with each other productively. Preparation for reintegration requires clear statements and understanding of each short-term objective and corresponding strategy. Staff can encourage and establish constructive linkages with the community by giving services, help, and encouragement to significant community subsystems; by using various community resources for services; and by providing time and opportunities for clients to maintain contact with family, friends, peers, and others. Internal program operations are equally important to reintegration. Differentiated programming and appropriate placements are also crucial. High levels of security are possible in reintegrative programs. A discussion of program design and implementation problems as well as a study of community-based programs for serious juvenile offenders are included . Eight references are listed.