Essay On Diversion Programs

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In the United States, there are some juveniles who are sentenced to diversion programs as a form of sentencing. These programs are sometimes run by the local police department, court, or an outside agency. These programs were created for status offenders to avoid criminal records and charges. Youth diversion programs are intended to offer as an alternative to the conventional juvenile justice system proceedings.
Adolescents enlisted in diversion programs meets with probation officers who must periodically send progress reports to the court. Those juveniles who comply with all rules of the program requirements are able to avoid intervention and court adjudications. One type of diversion program is called “Outreach and Tracking”. The conductor of this program commences contact with the adolescent a few times a day, every day of the week. The purpose of this is to provide close monitoring to keep the teen safe in just about every aspect of their life to refrain them from getting in any type of trouble.
The local juvenile court refers the teenager and his or her parents for an intake interview with one of the YDP counselors, who conduct certain testing to develop a personal plan that addresses the unique needs of the teenager. This plan may require individual, family, or group counseling; workshops on topics like substance abuse issues or domestic violence, some volunteer work in the community, restitution, or taking part in an employment program.
The main goals of the program is to encourage at-risk youth to participate in more positive and constructive behavior. Interpose the teen at an early stage and avoid the chances of progression towards serious offenses. Lastly provide the teenager and their family with applicable socia...

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... weaknesses of the program and its effectiveness. The evaluation process should include: identifying clear goals of the program and developing a survey for each goal. These surveys can be executed at the first session of the program and again once it has ended. Comparing the pre-test and post-test info shall provide valuable info about changes in attitudes and behaviors.

Research indicates that diversion programs should last at least six months and include positive activities with caring adults, i.e., community service, mentor programs, family activities. Changing a youth's behaviors and attitudes can be a lengthy process and the educational component of the program is only one part of a larger effort to encourage positive youth development. As youths participate in positive activities, they can actively practice the skills they learn through the diversion program.

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