ABSTRACT
Offending behaviour programmes are designed to prevent (or at least reduce) offending and reoffending by children and young people. Meta-analyses have determined a number of core principles that may make such programmes more effective. They also highlight a number of interventions that are less likely to work overall. This chapter also urges caution in relying too heavily on these meta-analytical outcomes in providing blanket approaches for young people, on the basis that there are things that are effective for some young people in some circumstances which may not be effective for others in different circumstances. It also provides an overview of cognitive behaviourism as the available research would suggest that such an approach can increase the likelihood of reducing offending. Again, it also offers an alternative view which suggests that an overreliance on these approaches may lead to a position where all the responsibility for change rests with the young person as the problem, ignoring wider social issues.
