Abstract
Purpose. The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore why juveniles are likely to recidivate back to a detention center after previously being detained at a local juvenile detention center in the Southern California region. Methodology. A qualitative case study design was employed. The researcher gathered data using formal interviews. A total of 10 juvenile probation officers were participants in the study. The interviews were audio recorded and later transcribed. The transcriptions were then coded and further analyzed for themes. A total of 18 themes were identified in this research study. Findings. The findings indicated that positive parent involvement was instrumental in the success rate of juvenile offenders. Minors tended to leave placements that were not locked quicker. Juvenile males and females had the same rate of recidivism. The results were inconclusive regarding special education services as a risk factor for recidivism. Youth who were gang affiliated had a higher chance of recidivating, and the current probation guidelines need to be modified in order to help rehabilitate juveniles and lower the recidivism rate. Conclusions. Some programs and/or policies to help reduce juvenile recidivism would be focusing on rehabilitation of the juveniles; implementing programs promoting transitional skills, job skills, and re-unification with family; and enabling community resources to help support the minors while they are at home and to help them be successful. These are suggestions to help lower the juvenile recidivism rate. Recommendations. Further research is recommended in the area of juvenile recidivism. Although determined inconclusive, gender could continue to be researched as a risk factor. Other areas for further research could be looking at ethnicity or race. Though not researched in this study, there has been research in the past suggesting that recidivism rates are higher for juveniles of certain ethnicities. Also, further research could consider lower socioeconomic status as a risk factor for juvenile recidivism.