Juvenile delinquents, or youth that have been convicted of a crime, seem to be the norm these days. Citizens, families, and poliy makers want new programs and policies within the juvenile justice system. Researchers have found that the family structure can be a precursor to delinquent behavior, and families do not have the control or blance that they once did. As such, mew measures need to be implemented to help these families in crisis. Rehabilitation of the family unit is the answer, say many, not punishment. In response to this, new ideas have formed to rehabilitate the family unit, but first, the family structures that are precursors to delinquent behavior must be identified. "Family Life, Delinquency, and Crime: A Policymaker's …show more content…

One study used a random, controlled study of 446 families that had participated in the program, and the results were unequivocal; the program is effective in reducing adolescent substance abuse and othe problems, improving parent/child relationships, and building parenting skills. In another article that examines a family program, Family Solutions, FSP, the author explains the steps of the program to reinforce the "family"(Quinn & Sutphen, 1994, p. 3). Typically, the Family Solutions Program lasts for 10 weeks and participants meet one time a week. All participants are required to set goals that can be accomplished during the 10 week period. The following ideas are the key elements of the Family Solutions Program: the FSP reinforces the thought that families can solve their problems within the family, and the family can be successful. Famlies also need or want other non-professionals, families with similar problems, to talk with and offer solutions. The FSP is a flexible program, particular problems can arise and they need to be dealt with then. The FSP centers on important community issues. "Discussions on family finances and budgets, premarital sex and meaningful symbols from the culture that espouse certain values are common" (Quinn & Sutphen, 1994, p. 10). The last key element of the FSP is the "celbratory context" of the meetings. Each family is encouraged to share any achievements or successes they have experienced. The Family Solutions