Resource Manual for the Violent Juvenile Offender Research and Development Program, Part 1 - Alternative Interventions

• NCJ Number: 86984
• Author(s): E Hartstone; J Fagan; E J Fazio
• Date Published: 1981
• Length: 49 pages
• Grant Number(s): 80-JN-AX-0006
• Sponsoring Agency: Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP)
• Corporate Author: URSA Institute
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/; NCJRS Photocopy Services
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This manual is a resource for developing the program design for the Violent Juvenile Offender Research and Development Program, for implementing the intervention theory and model, and for training project staff and other relevant agencies.

Abstract

The intervention model to be tested integrates control, social learning, and strain theories of delinquency, and incorporates individual psychosocial and developmental factors unique to violent youth. Strategies of intervention include (1) social networking, which provides positive socialization experiences to strengthen personal bonds to families, peers, schools, and other social institutions as well as to nondelinquent lifestyles; (2) the provision of youth opportunities for achievement and rewards from participation in schools, jobs, family, and community; and (3) social learning that accomplishes behavioral change through positive and negative reinforcement. The underlying principles and processes of the intervention model are systematized through the structural components of case management, a range of treatment approaches, and community reintegration. Case management includes diagnostic assessment, the use of treatment performance contracts, the involvement of youth and family, referral for treatment interventions, the monitoring of in-residence treatment process and community placements, and project termination. Treatment approaches cover medical care, education, job training and placement, constructive living arrangements, individual and family counseling, mental health treatment, and leisure-time activities. Community reintegration includes the provision of opportunities for the youth to practice new skills and behavior in the community. Each program must establish clear, consistent linkages with programs, organizations, and agencies in its community. Particular attention must be devoted to the juvenile justice system in general and individual entities and agencies which compose the system. A total of 250 bibliographic listings are provided.