NCJ Number
146945
Journal
Journal for Juvenile Justice and Detention Services Volume: 8 Issue: 2 Dated: (Fall 1993) Pages: 67-71
Date Published
1993
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article presents the results of a longitudinal study of the influence of "Changing Directions" (CD) on the self-esteem of delinquents in a correctional facility.
Abstract
In an earlier paper (McGuffey, Broner, and Smith, 1990), the short-term influence of the Pacific Institute's "Changing Directions" program on self-esteem of delinquents was reported. No long-term influence of CD could be determined from the assessment; however, a longitudinal study was then in progress to examine possible long-term program influences. This article reports on the findings of this longitudinal study. Of the 100 subjects in the initial study, 45 were reassessed at an average of 8 months postexposure to the program. The researchers found that overall self-esteem had not diminished over this period; however, when those who committed less severe criminal acts and were sent home were compared to those who committed more severe acts and were sent to another correctional facility, significant differences were found. The former group of juveniles showed greater improvement in self-esteem than the latter group. These data, if supported by future research, may have value in predicting classes of delinquents and their treatment. Improvement in the self-esteem of delinquent youth may diminish involvement in other adolescent high-risk behaviors. 10 references