NCJ Number
170130
Journal
Corrections Today Volume: 59 Issue: 3 Dated: (June 1997) Pages: 62-64,66
Date Published
1997
Length
4 pages
Annotation
Since the 1950's juvenile correctional facilities have changed in structure, security, and programming, in response to both juvenile offenders and the context of the time; corrections professionals also recognize that outside factors must be addressed to reduce juvenile delinquency.
Abstract
The cottage-type juvenile facilities of 40 years ago have given way to the more institutional settings common today. At the same time, the number of juvenile offenders and the severity of their crimes has increased. Many juvenile offenders of the past were considered wayward youth rather than hardened criminals. In contrast, today's media and politicians increasingly portray juvenile offenders as ruthless people who are unconcerned about the consequences of their actions. The atmosphere of blame has pressured justice departments in many States to ignore causes and focus mainly on the crimes. As a result, more youths are being tried in criminal courts and sent to adult prisons. The earlier facilities focused on creating a family-like environment and using an educational approach with positive reinforcement. Programs introduced in the 1970's added therapy and counseling to the educational components. Facilities were also made more secure. Budget cutbacks in the 1980's resulted in program cutbacks for juveniles. Special education programs were developed, but crowding became a problem. Boot camps are a recent addition to juvenile corrections; they combine treatment, educational programs, and military exercises. Even with alternatives, crowding continues to be a problem, and pressure has increased to handle juveniles as adults. However, many juvenile justice experts emphasize the need to work with families and communities to reduce problems before they are out of hand and to put more emphasis on treatment programs. Photographs