From Juvenile Justice Information Exchange:
“Effective, evidence-based practices that support the wellness and resiliency of youth in school and in the community are emerging.” —Models for Change (2010)
Adolescence — the unique journey between childhood and adulthood — can either be a safe place for positive youth development or a “bridge over troubled waters” as young people form their identities. The Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) acknowledges that “experimentation and risk-taking behaviors, sensitivity to peers and other social influences” are foreseeable results of this critical life stage. For most of us, our offending behaviors ceased as we matured into adults (with the help of pro-social supports).
Only a small percentage of young people continue into adulthood the kind of anti-social behavior that rises to the level of justice involvement. Recent studies suggest that the most successful programs provide intensive, comprehensive services based on the youths’ level of risk for offending over an extended period in community-based programs. Ideally, community-based alternatives will reduce stigma and recidivism, provide youth with role models and positive peers, improve school engagement and increase overall levels of youth functioning. Continue reading >>
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