Date of Conferral

2021

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Christopher Bass

Abstract

With a shift in focus from punitive measures to rehabilitation within the juvenile justice system, it is imperative that the efficacy of alternative resources is more closely examined. Given the existing research that highlights adolescent development and the negative or neutral impacts detention centers impose on juveniles, the conversation has now shifted to the use of alternative resources or alternatives to detention. The question now, however, is whether or not these alternatives are sufficient enough to ensure the safety of the community, victims, and the well-beings of the juveniles, when a violent crime has been committed. This study, which was grounded with general strain theory (GST) framework, examined the experiences of probation officers who supervise justice involved youth who, during their time on probation, were engaged in or had been engaged in alternative resources. Through qualitative interviews, this phenomenological study gathered, from the perspective of seven probation officers, the efficacy in relying on alternative services for violent juvenile offenders, and whether or not the utilization of alternative resources can, in their professional opinions, be considered sufficient enough to move away from using detention centers entirely. Results from this study showed that all participants have seen the shift in focusing on alternative services. The implications for positive social change brought on by this study include it being a viable addition to the existing body of knowledge which can lend itself to policy makers who can make adjustments to better serve justice involved youth.

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