| Abstract: | This study evaluated a multiple‐family group‐intervention program (MFGI) for first‐time juvenile offenders. The recidivism rate for subjects who completed the MFGI (the Family Solutions Program) was compared to recidivism rates of two other groups of first‐time juvenile offenders. Using logistic regression analysis predicting who will recidivate, juvenile first offenders who were placed on probation (N = 95) were 9.3 times more likely to re‐offend compared to the Family Solutions Program (FSP) graduates (N = 267). Families referred to FSP but who dropped out (most never attended the 10 session program) (N = 93) also were 4.4 times more likely to re‐offend compared to FSP graduates. An intent‐to‐treat model comparing the combined group of FSP graduates and dropouts with the probation group indicated that a youth in the probation group was 8.1 times more likely to re‐offend than a youth referred to the FSP. Results indicating better outcomes on recidivism for FSP graduates were significant for both male and female youths. Implications for policy and practitioners are discussed. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comm Psychol 32: 177–200, 2004. |
