Comparing coercive and non-coercive interventions
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Professor James McGuire (February 2010)
The incidence of imprisonment for under-18s in England and Wales is one of the highest in the world. James McGuire examines the evidence that shows resorting to incarceration and strict control has little or no benefit in reducing reconviction. He questions the use of policies that consistently favour coercive measures over more constructive initiatives such as counselling, skills training, family support and community regeneration. McGuire recommends more rational and effective approaches to working with young people which are more humane and cost-effective than a reliance on the ever-increasing investment in institutions and mechanisms of control. This is the second of three briefings the Centre is publishing as part of its contribution to the Transition to Adulthood Alliance, supported by the Barrow Cadbury Trust. |