Problem: Reply to this discussion post and make it a paragraph long:
One issue I have found with any "diversion" type programs is the inability for providers (probation officer, counselor, therapist, etc.) to be the primary influencer in the person's life. When I was a probation and parole officer, I dealt with adults, not juveniles, but we attempted this type of approach with our offenders. Most of my offenders I would only see twice per month. Even the most intensely supervised ones I would only see 2 or 3 times per week. That would amount to less just a few hours each month I would counsel with them. What about the rest of the time? I may have influence over them 1% of the time, meanwhile 99% of their time is continued negative influences. With juveniles, often their family life is the primary root of their problems. The juvenile officer and juvenile case workers may do a fantastic job, but the juvenile's family will still spend far more time influencing them. It is very difficult to alter someone's behavior when the negative influences simply outnumber you. Removing a juvenile from the things you wish to divert them from can be easier said than done. Need Assignment Help?