This unprecedented study of delinquent behavior reversal challenges the widely held view that early delinquency becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy. By identifying the variables involved in the turnaround process, the contributors provide an examination of issues such as: favorable effects of juvenile court adjudication; following up previously adjudicated delinquents; the post-intervention experience; delinquency and attachment; and evolution, devolution, and disruption of treatment in an antisocial child. The book is a significant and welcome addition to the literature that should stimulate more and better research on the juvenile justice system that will have a positive and constructive thrust. "Criminal Justice RevieW"

Adolescent delinquents can often experience a complete behavioral turnaround--even if their delinquent behaviors have become a pattern. This unprecedented study of delinquent behavior reversal challenges the widely held view that early delinquency becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy. By identifying the variables involved in the turnaround process, the contributors hope to provide an understanding of this phenomenon--and to encourage its occurrence. They examine, from both personal and research perspectives, issues such as: favorable effects of juvenile court adjudication; following up previously adjudicated delinquents; the post-intervention experience; delinquency and attachment; and evolution, devolution, and disruption of treatment in an antisocial child.

What determines whether a child will fall victim to his troubled surroundings or whether he will overcome the adversity and even emerge strengthened? Mental health professionals are beginning to focus on the identification of factors which can promote healthy adjustment, or, resilience, in children. In this volume, leading scholars in the field pioneer this alternative approach toward mental illness by attempting to define these factors of resilience which can then provide the groundwork for primary prevention specialists to develop and implement preventive rather than remedial programs for children designated at risk.

Unlike previous volumes which profile resilience in a small sample group, this study extends the search for an adequate psychological definition of resilience by examining many diverse populations ranging from stepchildren to developmentally delayed children to children of religious cults. Each group's psychological dynamics are thoroughly explored and the research documented, thereby providing a broad base of knowledge from which to derive a solid definition. A valid model for the recognition of positive motivations in children under stress is established and marks this work as a significant contribution to the literature on the psychology of wellness.