How to Manage Violence in Juvenile Corrections
According to the National Criminal Justice Reference Service, juvenile justice facilities across the nation are in a state of crisis. Violence against other juvenile inmates, as well as staff, has become almost a regular occurrence and staff violence against these troubled youth is no longer an unheard of occurrence. Violence among youths both in and out of correctional facilities has reached almost epidemic proportions and there is much work to be done to control such violence.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Challenging
Instructions
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Seek the root of the problem. Why is this violence occurring among the incarcerated youths? Is it just a clash of personalities or is it a greater issue such as gang rivalry? Understanding what the issue is should be the first step to resolving these conflicts. Without knowing the problem, you cannot come up with a solution.
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2
Provide a treatment program. Some of these young offenders may have underlying issues relating to mental health. Others' behavior may be a byproduct of an violent home life. Violence begets violence, and many of the coping skills are learned behaviors taken on after years of watching the same type of violence being perpetuated at home. Again, treating the root issue is the only way to curb the symptoms of the problem.
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3
Promote a program that will provide these at risk youths with a positive outlet for their energies. Some of the children will do well in physical activities such as team sports. Being part of a team allows them to learn about camaraderie and the benefits of working together. Other children might benefit from arts programs that will allow them to express themselves in a positive manner through drawing, painting or maybe even writing. Have a variety of programs available, because one thing will not work for everyone.
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Tips & Warnings
Although they have committed crimes, they are still children. They are not beyond hope for rehabilitation. They are like any other children. Given a stern, yet nurturing, environment, they too can overcome their obstacles and become successful in the rest of their lives.
