NCJ Number
168931
Date Published
1993
Length
25 pages
Annotation
This chapter identifies issues that must be addressed in American society if a long-term solution to the increasing crime problem is to be found.
Abstract
If street crime is to be reduced, mainstream American society must face and address the factors that are perpetuating and expanding an underclass in American society. This involves dealing with the growing economic and racial disparities between the underclass and the overclass. The underclass has few powerful advocates in the arenas of power, and the public appears indifferent to this fact. Long-term efforts to address crime in America must also focus on the failure of our traditional social- control institutions to mold positive behaviors. The family, the school, and the government must find ways to strengthen the positive influences that each could provide to influence responsible, law-abiding behavior among youth. Some suggestions for improved social action to counter criminogenic influences are the expanded involvement of youth in the Job Corps and a greater involvement of businesses as well as the nonprofit and foundation sectors in efforts to build and strengthen community institutions that foster positive citizen behaviors.