Diversion and Neighborhood Delinquency Programs in Open Settings: A Social Network Interpretation (From Behavioral Approaches to Crime and Delinquency: A Handbook of Application, Research, and Concepts, P 251-269, 1987, Edward K Morris and Curtis J Braukmann, eds. -- See NCJ-111159)

• NCJ Number: 111168
• Author(s): C R O'Donnell; M J Manos; M Chesney-Lind
• Date Published: 1987
• Length: 19 pages
• Sale Source: Plenum Press
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This chapter examines and evaluates programs for the diversion of juvenile delinquents and neighborhood delinquency programs.

Abstract

The two kinds of programs differ. Diversion programs are mandatory alternatives for delinquents who would otherwise be dealt with by the legal system and who might be placed in correctional institutions. Neighborhood programs, on the other hand, are voluntary and are designed for adolescents who are at high risk for delinquency. Both neighborhood and diversion programs provide counseling, health care, and job opportunities as well as social, academic, and recreational activities. Behavioralists helped others in the social service tradition in developing neighborhood programs. Studies show that diversion programs related to the criminal justice system may be poorly implemented and limited in effectiveness. Neighborhood intervention programs offering activities in high-delinquency areas or to referred high-risk youth have had mixed results. Some success has been demonstrated in employment-related activities. Researchers believe that peer relationships play an important role in the success of neighborhood programs. More network exchanges should be developed without permitting the development of delinquent networks. A systems approach is recommended to study delinquent behavior in settings and networks. 60 references.