NCJ Number
96793
Journal
British Journal of Criminology Volume: 24 Issue: 4 Dated: (October 1984) Pages: 384-393
Date Published
1984
Length
10 pages
Annotation
This paper examines differences in the data presented by two studies of the same community home for hardcore delinquents (Ardale) in London, England, and compares its social climate at the time of the studies with other residential establishments.
Abstract
Both Mayers (1980) and Tremblay (1976) report collecting data on boys in the treatment unit (Shackleton House) and the control unit (Nansen House) in March and November 1975. Yet, there are discrepancies in the number of experimental subjects identified by the two investigators as well as discrepancies in assessments of the social climate and behavior modification. Mayers' data show a marked increase in the boys' positive perception of the unit's social climate and a significant positive change in behavior; whereas Tremblay's does not. Comparative data on four residential treatment centers for juvenile delinquents -- two in the London area (one of which is Ardale) and two from Canada -indicate that the Ardale home's social climate, as perceived by the boys, is the least positive of the four institutions. The Ardale data suggest that it may have been a less positive treatment environment than other establishments. The paper includes additional editorial comments. Tabular data, footnotes, and 19 references are provided.