Rapid Improvement of Reading Skills in Juvenile Delinquents

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Abstract
Boys institutionalized for illegal behavior are frequently in dire need of remedial academic programs. Twenty boys, who were committed to a state institution as delinquents, participated in a short-term reading program which provided structured self-instruction, high interest reading material, and reduced chances of experiencing failure. After completing an average of twenty-four 50-minute sessions, significant improvement was found in vocabulary, speed, and accuracy in reading (p<.01) which exceeded a gain of a year on grade-normed achievement tests. Students responded favorably to the program, and discipline problems were minimal. Reading improvement was not related to IQ; remedial education is an important aspect of correctional programs for delinquent youths.