Key theoretical and methodological issues in conducting treatment research in the juvenile justice system

Abstract

Addressed are critical conceptual and methodological problems that have hampered the development and implementation of effective treatment for juvenile offenders. Theoretical formulations underlying extant treatments are considered, and the nature and scope of theoretical models better suited to the development of effective intervention programs are described. Discussed methodological issues focus on the validity of comparisons between groups and the construct validity of treatment. Suggestions for addressing key issues are informed by conclusions of leading methodologists and our experience in conducting several clinical trials with serious juvenile offenders.