Teenagers Problems: An Examination of Youth and Adult Perceptions

It has been pointed out by the Task Force on Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (1976) that too often programs have been planned and implemented on the basis of uninformed speculation. In order to determine the major concerns of youths for purposes of delinquency prevention and resources allocation, a study was conducted in the Cleveland area of Ohio. This study was designed to compare the perspectives of youths and adults toward teenage problems. While the exact ranking of problems were not identical, the eleven problem statements ranked highest by both populations were highly similar. The problems that are drawing the most concern and attention include alcohol and drug abuse as well as unemployment. As a result of this concordance, it may be asserted that program planners, administrators and direct service workers are able to reflect accurately the needs and perceptions of youths. It must be recognized, however, that the findings of this effort may vary over time and across geographic locations