Examining juvenile intensive support and supervision programs: a search for what works

This major paper examines the constructs and applications of juvenile intensive support and supervision programs (ISSP) in Canada, United States, England/Wales, and Western Australia. This major paper also explores the historical, theoretical, political, and correctional system influences that have played a role in shaping the various models of ISSP that exist today. The current research literature supports the construct of ISSP as a hybrid of enhanced juvenile surveillance and accountability, while simultaneously providing youth and their families with essential treatment and rehabilitative services. The literature also supports interventions that target criminogenic needs and promote protective factors with the objective of building resiliency in young offenders and their families. This major paper concludes that there are a number of promising elements within the various applications of ISSP worldwide that could be incorporated in a single model; however, further independent outcome evaluations are needed, particularly in Canada, to establish the effectiveness of these interventions.