The Relationship Between Juvenile Diversion Programs and Recidivism For Juvenile Offenders

Abstract

This project evaluates the effects of diversion hearing assignment on recidivism. In this quasi-experimental study, data were gathered from court records and referral history reports for approximately 200 individual juvenile offenders referred to one of three hearing types, including Community Accountability Boards, Teen Court, and Staff Assignments. Results may help administrators understand the rates of success for each hearing type as well as predict the likelihood of future outcomes for program participants. In addition, drawing from social learning theory, this research will test the hypothesis that youth judged by their peers (referred to Teen Court hearings) are less likely to recidivate than youth judged by adults (referred to Community Accountability Boards or Staff Assignment). Findings may benefit for other Juvenile Court practitioners and policy makers operating similar diversion programs.