NCJ Number
102608
Editor(s)
J C Steiger,
D R Guthmann
Date Published
1985
Length
38 pages
Annotation
This paper summarizes and presents an annotated bibliography of recent literature (1970-1983) on the value of education in the rehabilitation of juvenile offenders.
Abstract
In summarizing the literature on the link between school and delinquency, the paper notes that juveniles who achieve academic success are less likely to be delinquent, and poor school performance leads to dropping out of school and a subsequent increase in delinquency. Reviews of school-based prevention and treatment programs reveal the absence of controlled research studies. Promising approaches are group therapy in combination with remedial reading, short-term remedial reading programs based on behavioral modification principles, and individualized instruction in conjunction with a reinforcement schedule. Some recommended alternative education approaches use individualized instruction, clear rewards contingent on effort and proficiency, goal-oriented work, small school size, caring and competent teachers, and a low student-teacher ratio. A prison-based remedial program combined with problemsolving skills resulted in a lower recidivism rate for participants. Moral education has also been used with offenders to teach responsible behavior and consideration for others. 30 annotations.