Prevent Juvenile Delinquency

Policy that leads to early prevention and intervention efforts through strong community-based, school-based and family focused programs have been shown to prevent drug use, delinquency, anti-social behavior, and early school drop-out. 

What Can Policymakers Do? 

• Support safe, stable school environments. Schools should be safe spaces for youth to learn and develop, and victimization at school can have lasting effects.
• Reengage disconnected youth.  Young people with a clear sense of identity, a positive sense of self-worth and opportunities to achieve are more likely to be successful.
• Strengthen the involvement of parents and communities. Strengthening the role of families and communities in preventing juvenile delinquency is a great way to ensure that youth are supported in their daily lives.
• Ensure quality early interventions. By supporting quality interventions policymakers help to ensure that young people get the services that they need at the earliest possible opportunity.