NCJ Number
88108
Journal
New Designs Volume: 4 Issue: 1 Dated: (January/February 1983) Pages: 9-13,16-17
Date Published
1983
Length
7 pages
Annotation
The juvenile who manifests a violent lifestyle must be controlled while appropriate treatment is offered. A violent lifestyle might be prevented by early intervention, particularly in child abuse situations.
Abstract
The juvenile with a violent lifestyle expresses frustration, solves problems, survives, and even finds satisfaction through violence, such that crime is inevitably yoked to the personality and repetitive behavior of such a juvenile. There is no empathy for others, only rage at having to experience pain themselves. Fear and intimidation do not subdue the violence but only direct it toward the sources of fear and intimidation. There is little if any insight into the self-defeating consequences of violent behavior. The violent behavior of such juveniles must be viewed realistically and controlled so as to protect the public and others who live with them in a correctional environment. In considering preventive measures, attention must be directed to child abuse, which has been shown to be related to subsequent violent behavior of victims. Early intervention in child abuse cases can help short circuit the cycle of violence. If prevention fails, special institutions and special programming must be provided for violent juveniles. Research and development should focus on ways to socialize and treat such juveniles.