Planning Programs for Prevention of Deviant Behavior

A psychosocial model based on peer cluster theory and aimed at the prevention of deviant behaviors is presented. The fundamental theorem that underlies the model is that deviant attitudes and behaviors are psychosocial in origin, a product of the interaction of psychological, social and cultural characteristics. The model further postulates the following: (1) Adolescence is a critical time in the evolution of deviant behaviors. Prevention programs, therefore, should include a mujor focus on youth. (2) Deviant attutudes and behaviors are a product of socialization, of learning norms through social interactions. (3) The primary socialization forces in a youth's life consist of the family, the school, and peer clusters. (4) The influence of secondary socialization forces, including the community, religion, the extended family, media, and peers in general, is less than and is usually mediated through the primary socialization links. (5) Any socialization link can transmit deviant norms, but healthy family and...