Reading for Life and Adolescent Re‐Arrest: Evaluating a Unique Juvenile Diversion Program
Authors:
- A. D. SeroczynskiASA. D. Seroczynski
- William N. EvansWEWilliam N. Evans
- Amy D. JobstAJAmy D. Jobst
- Luke HorvathLHLuke Horvath
- Giuliana CarozzaGCGiuliana Carozza
- 6 May 2016
- journal article
- research article
- Published by Wiley in Journal of Policy Analysis and Management
- Vol. 35 (3) , 662-682
Abstract
We present results of an evaluation of Reading for Life (RFL), a diversion program for nonviolent juvenile offenders in a medium‐sized Midwestern county. The unique program uses philosophical virtue theory, works of literature, and small mentoring groups to foster moral development in juvenile offenders. Participants were randomly assigned to RFL treatment or a comparison program of community service. The RFL program generated large and statistically significant drops in future arrests. The program was particularly successful at reducing the recidivism of more serious offenses and for those groups with the highest propensity for future offenses.Keywords
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