JUST AS MANY strategies are used to punish juvenile offenders, a wide variety of strategies have been developed to prevent juveniles from becoming offenders. In general, prevention measures follow one of two strategies. One strategy is to set limits or establish boundaries and guidelines for juveniles. Another strategy is to offer juveniles alternative activities to street life, or to work toward improving the lives of poor and disadvantaged children. Communities throughout the nation combine these prevention strategies in their efforts to combat juvenile crime.

Curfews

An increasing number of cities have turned to curfews to help reduce juvenile crime. A curfew is a predesignated time by which all juveniles must be off the streets and in their homes. The purpose of a curfew is to prevent juveniles from being out at night when many crimes are committed. Authorities believe that curfews reduce...