Should Scared Straight and similar programs be widely used to deter at-risk youth from reoffending?
In answering this question, please follow these more specific guidelines:
- How does the Scared Straight program apply ideas from deterrence and rational choice theories? Make sure you explain the ideas behind these theories, where they come from, and how they are utilized by the program.
- Is there evidence that programs like Scared Straight work in preventing crime? Explain.
- Are there limitations or flaws to these programs? What alternative approaches to reducing juvenile reoffending would you recommend that may be more effective (if any)? What other theories might help policy makers develop more effective
intervention programs for at-risk youth?
Sample Solution