Of 1,837 youth contacted in a national study of juvenile correctional programs, 194 returned follow-up questionnaires that sought information on their post-release status and activities, assessment of the correctional programs, and their expectations about the future. Many youngsters reported continued delinquent activity; more reported continued…

Evaluation of the first Texas correctional substance abuse program indicated that although recidivism was significantly reduced for offenders completing the program, a large number did not complete it and had recidivism rates comparable to those not participating. This problem and others caused the Texas Legislature to decide against expansion.…

Studied 340 former inmates of two reform schools. One school emphasized psychological treatment; the other school stressed harsh punishment. Results suggested that "milieu therapy" works in adolescence, but has no discernible effect after age 24. Ethnicity had a powerful effect on recidivism. (JAC)

Assesses the effectiveness of the juvenile justice system in preventing delinquency and rehabilitating delinquents. The six articles in this special issue also discuss status offenders and gender issues, examine the Chicago Area Project, and discuss the future of juvenile justice policy and research. (JAC)