Establishing a Violence-Free Atmosphere in a Secure Treatment Unit - An Exploration of the Robert F Kennedy School (From Violent Juvenile Offenders - An Anthology, P 327-335, 1984, Robert A Mathias et al, ed. - See NCJ-95108)

• NCJ Number: 95178
• Author(s): G M Welch
• Date Published: 1984
• Length: 9 pages
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/; NCJRS Photocopy Services
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Available on microfiche as NCJ-95108.

Annotation

The Robert F. Kennedy School, which offers rehabilitation to some of the most violent juvenile offenders in Massachusetts, is committed to the highest standards of care for children.

Abstract

Established in 1969, the program is a venture of the public and private sectors. The school is a secure facility which offers care and treatment to 15 male juveniles who begin their residencies between ages 14 and 17. Those who attend the school are always called students, because of the active connotation of the word. The program's design encourages the staff to assume the adult-parent role rather than that of a big brother or sister. Neither students nor staff may swear or smoke in the building, nor eat other than at specific times. Students are not allowed to inflict their anger on others; bearing this in mind, staff also resist venting anger on the students. Meals are significant events, with staff and students sharing the same tables and students being served first. Requiring staff and students to follow many of the same regulations enhances the security and safety of the building and staff. The program structure is dynamic and is maintained through constant attention to student needs and the accessibility of decisionmakers at all levels. Three references are listed.