Individual and Familial Variables for Predicting Successful Completion of a Juvenile Justice Diversion Program

Abstract

A key variable in the success of a juvenile justice diversion program (i.e., avoiding reoffending) is completing the program. Little is known about which variables predict successful completion. The present study examined demographics; behavioral histories; current behaviors; and family, school, and social issues among participants drawn from a metropolitan Detroit diversion program. Logistic regression analyses identified variables predictive of program completion. Key predictors included race, aggressive behavior, previous counseling or treatment, poor academic performance, diagnosed with ADD/ADHD, and parental reports of not contributing to household chores. Recommendations for modifying diversion programs based on these findings are offered.

KEYWORDS:

• juvenile offenders
• juvenile justice
• diversion
• community-based rehabilitation
• risk factors

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

We thank Monica Fulton from Garden City Family Resource Center for the program information provided to us and for access to these data. We also thank Kevin Early, Lisa Martin, and Nehal Patel for their very helpful suggestions regarding this article.