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Abstract:
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The reintegration process of over 200,000 individuals from the juvenile justice system
occurs each year nationally. The majority of those 200,000 youth returns to the juvenile
justice system, or moves into the adult prison system within one year. The purpose of
this study is to explore the current models for reintegration and aim to identify an
effective practice model in the literature to decrease recidivism rates for juvenile
offenders. By reviewing the social work and criminal justice literature, the author finds
reintegration practice models and suggestions for policy improvements for this
population. Through a secondary data analysis, this study offers an in-depth examination
of the Missouri Model of Juvenile Justice, in a case study. The model is chosen for its
national recognition as a successful model in reducing recidivism rates and as an
effective integrative practice model. In conclusion, the author encourages social workers
to collaborate with the criminal justice and psychology fields in order to improve
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aftercare services for juvenile offenders and help develop programs that are integrative to
improve youth outcomes. |
