What Works in Reducing Adolescent Violence: An Empirical Review of the Field

• NCJ Number: 177636
• Author(s): P Tolan; N Guerra
• Date Published: 1998
• Length: 66 pages
• Sponsoring Agency: University of Colorado at Boulder
• Sale Source: University of Colorado at Boulder
• Publication Format: Document
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study reviewed the literature on programs designed to modify and prevent violent juvenile behavior, with attention to evaluation research conducted on programs that use various treatment methods.

Abstract

The authors advise that the value of this review is limited, because it indicates that most approaches for addressing juvenile violence have not been well evaluated, so that the effects shown must be qualified and enthusiasm tempered. The review shows that there are effective programs at each level of intervention, although the majority of evaluated programs target individual- level influences, because this level is the easiest to evaluate. At the individual level, there is support for the use of cognitive- behavioral multidimensional programs, particularly those that combine generic problem-solving skills (a structured method for resolving interpersonal conflicts) with other cognitive skills (e.g., perspective-taking and moral reasoning). Further, programs that provide for extensions into real-life skills and situations are apparently more effective than others, and behavior modification in real-life settings has shown promise. There is some evidence that individual analytic and supportive psychotherapy can work if it is part of a larger structured program; however, the overall evidence argues against its use. it is less effective than other approaches and may have harmful effects. Similarly, intensive casework has been evaluated numerous times and has failed to show a positive effect; at times, negative effects have been shown. Biomedical approaches have produced equivocal results, and apparently are indicated only for extremely violent youths. This review identifies neglected areas of programming for youth violence and offers recommendations for designing evaluation research for violence- reduction programs. The authors advise that funding agencies should require high-quality evaluations for the programs funded. 3 figures, 1 table, and 280 references