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Supporting youth and families to prevent risky youth behavior and delinquency: An impact evaluation of a family counseling program in the Caribbean

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  • Stahlberg, Stephanie G.
  • Díaz-Cayeros, Alberto
  • Pizatella-Haswell, Rachel

Abstract

This study provides the first randomized controlled trial (RCT) of a family counseling intervention in the Caribbean, and one of the few RCTs on a violence and delinquency prevention program in the region. This trial studies the impact of the Family Matters program for youth aged 10–18 years old and at risk of engaging in delinquent behavior. As a result of the program, parental supervision improved and there wasareduction insome of the youths’ negativebehaviors and attitudes, but the magnitude of improvements was small: participants’ average number of risk factors decreased by only one fifth of a standard deviation. Improved behaviors did not translate into reduced youth delinquency. The findings suggest that with some adjustments to improve program targeting and address pressing family challenges, the intervention may have a more meaningful impact on caregiving practices and youth behaviors and delinquency levels.

Suggested Citation

  • Stahlberg, Stephanie G. & Díaz-Cayeros, Alberto & Pizatella-Haswell, Rachel, 2022. "Supporting youth and families to prevent risky youth behavior and delinquency: An impact evaluation of a family counseling program in the Caribbean," Children and Youth Services Review, Elsevier, vol. 142(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:cysrev:v:142:y:2022:i:c:s019074092200281x
    DOI: 10.1016/j.childyouth.2022.106645
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