Date

6-17-2026

Department

Helms School of Government

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy in Criminal Justice (PhD)

Chair

Melvin Richards

Keywords

Youth, Offenders, Juvenile, Delinquency, Rehabilitation, Crime, Prevention

Disciplines

Social and Behavioral Sciences | Sociology

Abstract

Juvenile delinquency and criminal offending have become significant problems in society today. Many offenders in the criminal justice system were exposed to violence and criminal activity at a young age. Early harmful exposure has influenced many at-risk youths in the community to commit crimes at a young age and develop into adult offenders. Juveniles in the community considered at-risk may be disadvantaged due to negative peer pressure, poverty, lack of parental involvement, illiteracy, and lack of opportunities for positive change and development. At-risk youth severely need structure, prosocial support, positive mentorship, and direction to prevent criminal activity and reduce recidivism. Building the knowledge to prevent youth from becoming adult offenders will start with effective parental involvement, prosocial groups, and constructive rehabilitation initiatives. Reducing and preventing juvenile delinquency is essential to crime prevention in society. Youth development and prevention programs that engage in non-criminogenic activities to encourage productive citizens and adopt human-centered approaches may successfully reduce delinquency among the youth. The purpose of this study was to explore the effectiveness of juvenile justice rehabilitation programs in the state of Virginia, with the Hampton Roads area as the sample. A case study design was used in this dissertation. The results, conclusions, and recommendations for further research were conveyed at the end of the study.

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