Young Offenders and Alcohol - A Survey of the Drinking Behaviour of a Borstal Population

• NCJ Number: 91123
• Journal: Journal of Adolescence Volume: 6 Issue: 2 Dated: (June 1983) Pages: 161-174
• Author(s): C R Hollin
• Date Published: 1983
• Length: 14 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Language: English
• Country: United Kingdom

Annotation

This paper reports results of a survey, based on previous Scottish studies, of the drinking behavior of 100 English Borstal trainees. A large proportion of the young offenders -- 38 percent -- reported drinking immediately before committing either their present or a previous offense.

Abstract

While little evidence for different criminal behavior in this 'alcohol group' was found, substantial differences in drinking behavior were reported and examined. These differences included amount typically drunk, frequency of drunkenness, and motivation for drinking. While a direct causal relationship between alcohol and crime remains to be satisfactorily proved, the present results strongly indicate the need for alcohol treatment programs in young offender establishments. Tables, footnotes, and about 24 references are provided. (Author abstract modified)