Learning Disabilities and the Young Offender (From Learning Disabilities and the Young Offender: Arrest to Disposition, P 14-27, 1986, Howard Stutt, ed. -- See NCJ-108409)

• NCJ Number: 108411
• Author(s): W M Cruickshank
• Date Published: 1986
• Length: 14 pages
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/; Canadian Assoc for Children and Adults With Learning Disabilities
• Language: English
• Country: Canada
• Note: For microfiche, see NCJ-108409.

Annotation

Maintaining that an inadequate definition of learning disabilities has been used in characterizing juvenile offenders as learning disabled, and that inadequate assessment, evaluation and diagnostic procedures characterize many programs into which these youths have been committed, this paper examines the relationship between learning disabilities and young offenders.

Abstract

After pointing out serious flaws in studies of learning disabled juvenile offenders, it cites studies by Frostig and Cruickshank that establish that no cause/effect 'link' exists between learning disabilities and juvenile offenses. Nevertheless, a higher percentage of juvenile offenders is present among learning disabled youth than should be expected, due to inadequate programs, particularly in secondary schools. Four essentials can nullify the relationship between language disabilities and juvenile delinquency: early discovery; an adequate program of assessment and diagnosis including the use of brain scan techniques; a carefully conceptualized developmental education program; and supervision following the return to the regular grade. 15 references.