Are placements helping? : a juvenile offenders perspective

Abstract

Many juvenile offenders placed in treatment facilities view their adjudication as a waiting game and refuse or reject proposed therapeutic treatments. Although this rejection of treatment and institutionalization can have several contributing factors, a question must be asked. Are juvenile treatment facilities effectively reaching their offender population? Research shows that while certain aspects of residential treatment facilities can have a positive effect on offenders, consistency has been elusive. Recidivism among juvenile offenders is prevalent and juvenile justice professionals are at a loss as to how to increase facility effectiveness. This research assesses the offenders' perceptions of their placement and if they feel they are being helped. A survey was distributed to 75 delinquent males, aged 15-20, residing in a state operated maximum-security facility in Western Pennsylvania. This survey determined their overall attitude and perceptions on their current placement; and also if they feel the placement is helping them. Although the majority of offenders in this residential treatment facility have multiple placement histories, 40 residents stated their placement holds at least some therapeutic value.