Self-Management and Social Skills Training: A Study with Predelinquent and Delinquent Youths

In a multiple baseline design across groups study, ten predelinquent and delinquent youths were given behavior modification, social skills, and self-management training. The youths were also required to conduct one behavior modification project on another person and one self-management project. Measures of the youths' behavior included parent and teacher rating scales, court records, and school attendance and grades. Parents, youths, and the referring community agencies also filled out program evaluation questionnaires. The youths demonstrated a decrease in the number of problem behaviors exhibited at home and in school. The results of the consumer evaluations also indicated the program was judged effective. The benefits of a self-management approach to juvenile offenders are discussed.