Studies of behavior modification and juvenile delinquency: A review, methodological critique, and social perspective

Studies of the use of behavior modification techniques with delinquent youth are reviewed according to the type of behavior to be modified: educational, program, and delinquent behavior per se. While these investigations indicate an overall pattern of positive results, the definitiveness of the conclusions is restricted by methodological weaknesses. Issues regarding the relevance of this literature to the area of social policy decisions, and its impact on the various social systems that affect the lives of the youth who become labeled as delinquent, are discussed. (64 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2006 APA, all rights reserved).