Research Paper: A Behavioral Intervention for Changing the Attitude of Young Boys in Iranian Juvenile Detention Centers

Objectives: Delinquency is one of the severe social problems. Today, changing criminal behavior and reducing the way and method of delinquency is one of the most important challenges in the juvenile justice system. Methods: Based on the cognitive-behavioral approach, this study used three principles of Red Cross and Red Crescent fundamental principles, three skills of basic life skills, and first aid skill. A group intervention in 13 sessions was designed for changing the attitudes of juveniles in conflict with the law and was implemented in juvenile detention centers in 5 provinces. Then, the efficiency of the model was evaluated. In this quasi-experimental study, two groups were compared as the pre-test, and then post-test. The statistical sample contained 127 boys with the age range of 12 to 19 years, who were randomly selected among delinquent juveniles in the mentioned centers. The reliability and validity of the researcher-made and normalized questionnaires were examined and confirmed by the opinions of experts and statistical methods. Results: There were significant differences between the experimental and control groups in humanity, impartiality, and voluntary services as well as the sum of fundamental principles and first aid skills, self-awareness, problem-solving, and anger management scores. These significant differences suggest that the model can develop these scores. Discussion: This model is effective in improving knowledge and skills and changing the attitude of delinquent juveniles. Based on the findings of this study, a model was designed, using three principles of the Red Cross society, basic life skills, and first aid skills that can be effective in changing the attitudes and behavior of people in the juvenile detention centers. This finding is consistent with the studies and similar experiences at this level and requires additional longitudinal studies to investigate its effects on the frequency of recidivism, arrest, trial, and return to the center or imprisonment.