NCJ Number
84834
Date Published
1979
Length
39 pages
Annotation
Based on the arrest records of 151 youths who were clients of the Youth Services Center (YSC) of Philadelphia between February 1975 and July 1978, this analysis investigates program participation impact on reduction of nonstatus offenses.
Abstract
Of the 151 youths, 99 had multiple contacts with the police. Data were analyzed to determine the extent to which the frequency and seriouness of police contacts prior to intake, during treatment, and after termination differed from each other. The analysis tested the supposition that treatment at YSC reduces delinquent behaviors which would be reflected in fewer and less serious police contacts. Two analyses were conducted. Although the pre-post study was flawed because of a weak research design, its findings were consistent with the more methodologically rigorous matched sample study. Neither analysis found any statistical or graphic evidence to support the hypothesis that YSC participation resulted in fewer and less serious police contacts. This finding is consistent with two earlier studies. In addition, a second study found no evidence that the initiation of the YSC program had any impact on the number of crimes committed in its catchment area. Lack of program effectiveness in these areas may be indicated. Nine charts and eight tables are included.