Changing lives : delinquency prevention as crime-control policy /

Nationally recognized delinquency and juvenile justice policy scholar Greenwood has answered Robert Martinson's challenge from his 1974 article "What Works? Questions and Answers about Prison Reform": nothing works in juvenile prevention/rehabilitation. Greenwood carefully defines prevention and applies a rigorous cost-effectiveness program evaluation approach. Early chapters deal with the US penchant to punish as a swift and politically correct solution. Using experimental research and meta-analysis findings found in the Surgeon General's report on youth violence and the University of Colorado Blueprints for Violence Prevention program, Greenwood examines programs and presents successful and failing prevention programs. Chapters four and five clearly present the findings. Some readers will be surprised, since visible popular programs are exposed as failures or often found to lack evaluation findings. However, many current interventions are identified as cost-effective in attaining crime control goals. These programs are "tried and proven." Prevention rather than punishment as crime-control policy receives recognition supported by program evaluation. The last three chapters provide profound insight and evidence to understand US crime control policy. The last chapter is a visionary discussion on programming in the "Modern Juvenile Court." It should be widely disseminated. This contribution demands close review by professionals and citizens. It should be read and studied by diverse audiences. Excellent bibliography. ^BSumming Up: Essential. All levels/libraries. J. H. Larson University of North Dakota