NCJ Number
149283
Date Published
1963
Length
10 pages
Annotation
SCORE is a low-cost offense reduction system targeted at hard-core teenage street-corner boys living in metropolitan areas.
Abstract
The program is characterized by its use of reinforcers and role-reversal to reduce crime, the establishment of a relationship between the SCORE worker and the teenagers, and the encouragement of community support and involvement. A 2- year follow-up study showed that the SCORE program, implemented in New York City and Cambridge, Massachusetts, was effective in reducing crime among teenaged participants. The primary scientific theory which underlies SCORE is the reinforcement of proper behavior. Incentives offered to the participants include money, food, clothes, restaurant meals, and a prestigous place to meet. The adolescents become involved in the efforts to reduce crime in their neighborhood by working on local projects, for which they are paid nominal fees. SCORE is designed to be supported by private citizens or agencies interested in reducing crime.