| The large number of juvenile detainees in California is a problem for the community, policy makers, and the justice system. Researchers are striving to find better alternatives for prevention, intervention, and rehabilitation. Recent research has turned toward organized sport as a possible protective factor for juvenile delinquency. The current study sought to identify which factors of the organized sport program are most important to crime reduction. Quantitative measures of social skills, self esteem and other protective and risk factors were collected at baseline and follow-up and compared with data collected from youth who did not participate in sports programs. In addition, qualitative data was collected to examine the motivating factors to participate in sports. Regression analysis was utilized to examine how participating in sports while incarcerated would affect various outcomes including rates of recidivism, self-esteem, coping styles, and goal setting. Although the quantitative measures did not support a statistically significant effect of sports intervention on recidivism, the feedback from the youth revealed variables of importance and factors to be considered in future research efforts. The addition of qualitative interviews permitted for gathering of information that may prove helpful to judges seeking alternate ways to reduce juvenile recidivism. This study provides support for the value of protective factors stemming from sports participation, including self-esteem building, sense of belonging, self-worth and attachment relationships with coaches. These factors may have an effect on recidivism. If youth offenders can be matched with individually meaningful intervention that instills and promotes these certain qualities attested to throughout the qualitative interviews, the chances for more successful outcome will increase. Further analysis of the data revealed the possibility that youth who participated in sports while incarcerated were less likely to be in a gang or in favor if gangs at follow-up. Future research should aim to understand the relationship between organized sports and gang membership. |
