Probation as a means of rehabilitation for juvenile offenders (14-18 years old) in Malta

Abstract

The current research focuses specifically on juvenile offenders aged fourteen up to eighteen years old who have been placed on a probation order for the first time. Since there are juvenile offenders who are rehabilitated while they arc on a probation order, this research seeks to find out how effective a probation order is in preventing juvenile offenders aged fourteen up to eighteen years old from committing further offences? This study looks at juvenile delinquency as well as examines the kinds of offences that juvenile offenders tend to commit before they are given a probation order. This research also analyses certain risk factors. This study goes into detail in order to look at effectiveness of probation. The researcher tried to see how a probation order can rehabilitate juvenile offenders. In addition, this study seeks to understand the interviewees' experiences in working with juvenile probationers. This means that information with regards juvenile probationers needed to be obtained. A qualitative research seemed to be appropriate for this kind of study. In-depth interviewing is the research method that the researcher uses in order to collect data. The researcher interviewed probation officers, psychologists and social workers who have worked with juvenile probationers. There are juvenile offenders on probation who manage to improve their relationships with their families.