Cognitive-behavioral interventions with young offenders /

Hollin succeeds in his intention to write a guidebook, rather than a manual, for understanding issues surrounding the treatment of young offenders. Six succinct chapters deal with a breadth of material: theories of criminal behavior; individual treatment programs; programs involving social contexts; effectiveness of different forms of treatment; and recommendations for increasing the efficacy of treatment. Although the writing lapses occasionally, it is typically good. Referencing is thorough and current; reviews and discussions of literature are satisfying. Since presentation is at the professional level and is condensed, relatively inexperienced readers will have some difficulty understanding the material. Because the approach is behavioral, individuals with different theoretical orientations may argue, for a variety of reasons, that underlying processes are given insufficient attention. Theoretical disagreements cannot, however, lessen the value of this quietly impassioned, scholarly text. Professionals not acquainted with the subject matter will find the text interesting and educational. Those working in the area should find it a valuable resource. Graduate level. -R. R. Niemi, University of Manitoba