Recidivism Rates of Youth Completing an Intensive Treatment Program in a Juvenile Correctional Facility

Abstract

This study analyzed the recidivism rates for 55 youth who had been placed at a state juvenile correctional facility who had completed the Intensive Treatment Program for juvenile delinquents judged as having the most severe psychological and behavioral problems. Rates of recidivism for 55 youth were determined two years after completion of the program. Approximately one half of the subjects were successfully maintained in community placements two years post discharge. The strong ecological approach combined with cognitive behavioral training, individualized contracts and family therapy was deemed successful.