NCJ Number
90471
Date Published
1982
Length
32 pages
Annotation
This manual presents guidelines for the creation of a youth development program in Boys Clubs and other youth-serving agencies, a program designed to prevent juvenile delinquency.
Abstract
The processes discussed are based in the concept that the development in youth of a sense of competence, usefulness, belonging, and power or potency can prevent the development of deviant, destructive behaviors in youth. Broad-based action is advised, consisting of the components of institutional change, a network of new relationships with other agencies, and the systematic upgrading of basic Boys Club services. Instruction is provided on how to research the community's problems and resources to identify unmet needs and ways in which existing services may be improved or expanded, along with the initiation of new services. Guidance is also provided for the assessment of a youth-serving agency's existing program. General program strategies and content are suggested, with emphasis on the mingling of youth in various stages of development to avoid the stigmatization of programs targeting 'problem' youth and create the opportunity for positive peer pressure from the more mature youth. An approach for initiating change and softening resistance to it among staff, youth, and parents is considered. Other topics considered include evaluating program efforts, learning from case histories, and the benefits of collaboration with other youth-serving agencies.