National Survey and Assessment of 66 Treatment Programs for Juvenile Offenders: Model Programs and Pseudomodels

• NCJ Number: 107234
• Journal: Juvenile and Family Court Journal Volume: 38 Issue: 3 Dated: (1987) Pages: 39-46
• Author(s): A R Roberts
• Date Published: 1987
• Length: 8 pages
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/; NCJRS Photocopy Services
• Publication Type: Survey
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

In 1985, a mail survey was conducted of 151 juvenile correctional agencies in all 50 States and the District of Columbia to identify model programs worthy of replication.

Abstract

Of the 66 programs identified by respondents, only 5 had completed evaluations of program effectiveness. The most frequently identified programs were specialized secure treatment programs for juvenile violent and sex offenders, wilderness programs, educational programs, and family treatment programs. Typical rationales cited for selecting these programs as models included innovation, provision of alternative treatment, and effectiveness. Restitution programs had served the greatest number of youth at the least cost. Family treatment, community-based treatment, wilderness programs, and prerelease and aftercare programs also were relatively inexpensive. The most expensive programs were secure treatment of violent juveniles, positive peer culture programs, and behavior modification and differential treatment. The majority of model programs were relatively short in duration (1-6 months). Of the five programs that had conducted evaluations, only two demonstrated effectiveness through statistical analysis, high internal validity, and reduced recidivism. 1 note.