This indispensable sourcebook sculpts an alternative response to juvenile crime. The rise of violent crimes committed by youths and the lack of effective responses to treating juvenile offenders have underscored the dire need for a different approach. Some of the most respected experts in juvenile justice answer that need in this authoritative volume, presenting a balanced, humane, and effective strategy for change.

The result is a comprehensive approach to preventing, treating, and controlling serious juvenile criminal behavior. Thorough analysis of strategy implementation complements discussion of core issues such as controlling delinquency, developing early and intensive intervention programs, risk assessment, and classification tools.

The inclusion of special chapters on recent gang research and juveniles in the criminal court system makes this volume the essential up-to-date resource for juvenile justice specialists.