NCJ Number
101345
Date Published
1985
Length
22 pages
Annotation
A questionnaire survey of 484 parents of youths on probation in South Carolina in 1985 aimed to determine parents' perceptions of the services their children received while on probation.
Abstract
A random sampling process selected 14 percent of the active State caseload as of May 10, 1985. The youths in the sample had all experienced between 3 and 6 months of probation. The survey used a 15-item questionnaire and produced a 40-percent response rate. Eighty-nine percent of the parents reported that the counselor had met with them and their child immediately after the dispositional hearing as required. Ninety-five percent understood the conditions of probation. Forty-five percent reported monthly visits and 20 percent reported twice-monthly visits by the counselor. Most found the counselors helpful to both the parent and the child. Overall responses were favorable. School visits were a weak area, however. Needed changes include increased efforts to get children into job programs, information to parents about services available inside and outside the agency, and consideration of additional services. Responses to this survey were somewhat less positive than those for the 1984 survey. The survey should be repeated in 1986. Table and questionnaire.