Change in Self-Concept in Work-Oriented versus Communication-Oriented Juvenile Correction Programs
This study investigated the effects of two institutional correction programs on change in self-concept of 60 male juvenile delinquents. The programs included a work-oriented program stressing individual, vocational and personal skills and a parent-child interaction program fostering family communication, cohesion, and solidarity. Each subject was given the Tennessee Self-concept Scale on admission to the program and then after 120 days of intervention therapy. 30 male delinquents in the program stressing interpersonal competence and family interaction underwent significantly greater change in self-concept than 30 peers in a work-oriented program; successful rehabilitation appeared to involve active integration of the delinquent and his family in the therapeutic process.