NCJ Number
75208
Date Published
1979
Length
139 pages
Annotation
The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of two training programs in Florida on delinquent youths: the Eckerd Wilderness Camping Program and the Florida Training Schools (rehabilitation institutions).
Abstract
Effects of these different treatment modes were measured in terms of school adjustment and court contact of each group at 6, 12, and 18 months after release or parole date. The sample population consisted of 120 males (aged 8-18), 60 of whom were Florida Training School graduates. Descriptive information derived from institutional records included: offenses committed, severity of offenses committed, length of enrollment in school, and achievement level in school. Results indicated that (1) prior to program entry Eckerd campers were younger, had a lower grade of more severe crimes, had fewer legal referrals for all years, had a greater number of prior youth commitments, and had a higher intelligence quotient than the State group, (2) during the first 6-month period, Eckerd campers had significantly fewer contacts, did not differ in severity of offenses committed, remained in school longer, and attained a significantly higher level in school than the State group; and (3) during the second and third 6-month period, there was no difference between the two groups in number of court contacts or in severity of offenses committed, and Eckert campers remained in school slightly longer and attained a significantly higher academic achievement level than the State group. Thirty tables, 1 figure, about 70 references, and 13 reference notes are provided. (ERIC abstract modified)