Date of Conferral

1-1-2021

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Public Policy and Administration

Advisor

Tamara A. Mouras, Jacqueline Cook-Jones

Abstract

Crime committed by adolescents between the ages of 13 and 16 is a recurring issue in the United States. Research showed a number of contributing factors associated with youth risk-taking behaviors and juvenile delinquency. The purpose of this qualitative case study was to improve the understanding of the relationship between intervention and prevention programs and curbing risk-taking and delinquency among adolescents between the ages of 13 and 16 in Monroe County, New York. This study addressed the connection between modern theories of deviance and programs of juvenile delinquency intervention as conceptualized by Chapman as the theoretical framework. Using intrinsic case study design, data were collected from two intervention and prevention program facilitators who participated in interviews conducted through email using semi structured, open-ended questions. Secondary data were collected from the Monroe County Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS). The key finding of this study indicated that intervention and/or prevention programs can curb youth risk-taking behavior and juvenile delinquency among adolescents between the ages of 13 and 16. According to the program facilitators, at-risk youth intervention and prevention programs are effective in reducing recidivism and rebuilding lives. Findings from this study have significant implications for positive social change when all stakeholders, politicians, social workers, health care providers, education institutions, community, and family members are involved in curbing youth risk-taking and juvenile delinquent behavior.

Download

Share

 
COinS