NCJ Number
184114
Journal
Journal of Offender Rehabilitation Volume: 30 Issue: 3/4 Dated: 2000 Pages: 59-98
Date Published
2000
Length
40 pages
Annotation
An extended analysis of an intervention designed to improve family functioning by empowering parents produced promising results regarding the program’s impact on recidivism among youths processed at the Hillsborough County (Fla.) Juvenile Assessment Center.
Abstract
The Family Empowerment Intervention took place in Tampa, Fla., and was part of the Youth Support Project funded by the National Institute on Drug Abuse. Trained paraprofessional staff working under the guidance of licensed clinicians provided the services. Families received in-home services aimed at restoring the family hierarchy, encouraging parents to take greater responsibility for family functioning, implementing rules and consequences, enhancing parenting and communication skills, and accomplishing other goals. The research used an experimental, prospective longitudinal design and randomly assigned families into the intervention group and a group that received only monthly phone contacts, and, as needed, referral information. The research focused on 119 males and 75 females aged 11-18 years arrested on misdemeanor or felony charges. Follow-up data covered the 12 months following random assignment into the groups. Youths receiving Family Empowerment Intervention services had a reduced rate of subsequent arrests for property felonies and drug felonies. Further research will focus on the 337 youths and their families now involved in the project. Tables, figures, appended table and list of reasons for juvenile court referral, and 46 references