Programming for Juvenile Delinquents - An Administrative Perspective (From Youth Violence, P 219-236, 1986, Steven J Apter and Arnold P Goldstein, eds. - See NCJ-101447)

• NCJ Number: 101456
• Author(s): B Glick
• Date Published: 1986
• Length: 18 pages
• Sale Source: Pergamon Press, Inc
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This article discusses administrative theories, models, and issues in juvenile justice programming.

Abstract

Over time, the juvenile justice system has evolved from an informal religiously oriented effort to provide services to the unwanted to a multibillion dollar industry that provides a wide array of residential and community programs and services. Similarly, three management and administrative theoretical clusters have evolved: chain-of-command theories, which use formal, hierarchical authority and decisionmaking processes; parent-child management theories, which emphasize the familial structure of staff-client relations and the importance of human interaction within a continuum of growth and development; and developmental-community theories, which assume that social interaction is an integral part of agency operations and advocates creation of an environment that supports personal and professional growth. Relevant to these theories is the construct of situational leadership that posits an interaction between staff maturity level and task- and relationship-oriented management styles. The administrative model developed by the Michigan Association of Children's Agencies exemplifies a community-development model with horizontal organization and a participatory management style. An understanding of administrative theories and models is important if juvenile justice administrators are to deal effectively with budget and finance, personnel, program development, information systems management, advocacy, planning, and professional development issues. 10 references.