Programs like Scared Straight aim to deter juvenile delinquents and children who are at risk for becoming delinquent from committing crimes in the future. The programs involve organized visits to prison facilities in which children and youth observe prison life first hand and interact with adult inmates.

This systematic review examined several studies on these types of programs to assess the effects the programs have on their participants. Results indicate that not only do these programs fail to prevent crime, they actually lead to more criminal behavior.

Visit the Scared Straight and Other Juvenile Awareness Programs for Preventing Juvenile Delinquency: A Systematic Review resource page to learn more and download your copy.