The effect of youth diversion programs on recidivism: A meta-analytic review

Forfatter(e)

Wilson, H. A. Hoge, R. D.

År

2013

DOI

10.1177/0093854812451089

Tidsskrift

Criminal Justice and Behavior

Sider

497-518

Kategori(er)

Atferdsproblemer, antisosial atferd og atferdsforstyrrelser

Tiltakstype(r)

Abstract

Pre- and postcharge diversion programs have been used as a formal intervention strategy for youth offenders since the 1970s.

This meta-analysis was conducted to shed some light on whether diversion reduces recidivism at a greater rate than traditional justice system processing and to explore aspects of diversion programs associated with greater reductions in recidivism.

Forty-five diversion evaluation studies reporting on 73 programs were included in the meta-analysis.

The results indicated that diversion is more effective in reducing recidivism than conventional judicial interventions. Moderator analysis revealed that both study- and program-level variables influenced program effectiveness.

Of particular note was the relationship between program-level variables (e.g., referral level) and the risk level targeted by programs (e.g., low or medium/high). Further research is required implementing strong research designs and exploring the role of risk level on youth diversion effectiveness.