NCJ Number
129624
Journal
Crime and Delinquency Volume: 37 Issue: 2 Dated: special issue (April 1991) Pages: 242-261
Date Published
1991
Length
20 pages
Annotation
The programs implemented under the social policy of the Kennedy-Johnson administrations included those aimed at the prevention and control of juvenile delinquency.
Abstract
Opportunity and labeling theories, particularly prominent during the 1960s, were influential in determining operational directions for the delinquency programs. These two theories engendered Mobilization for Youth, the delinquency programs of the Kennedy administration, and components of the Johnson administration's Office of Economic Opportunity which aimed at addressing the problems of youth. Although popular and based on scientific modes of observation, these efforts were not successful to any significant degree from the perspectives of long-lasting results and continuity of policy. However, there seems as much reason to question the modes of execution of theorems as the adequacy of theories to account for the failures. 4 notes and 48 references (Author abstract modified)