Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Juvenile Offenders

Summary

The BAM evaluation found that a school-based cognitive behavioral therapy program reduced violent crime arrests among at-risk youth by 44% in the first year. The program addresses what the researchers call 'automaticity' — habitual, fast responses to perceived threats that can escalate to violence. Follow-up studies found that effects persisted two years after program completion and that a summer jobs component added complementary effects. The finding is notable both for its effect size and for demonstrating that crime can be reduced through non-criminal-justice channels.

Research question

"Can cognitive behavioral therapy reduce violent crime among youth at high risk of justice involvement?"

Methodology

Result

Positive

44% reduction in violent crime arrests; school engagement improved

Evidence strength

Strong

Randomized trial, replicated across multiple sites or studies.

Replication status

Replicated