Treatment of young offenders

Abstract

Twenty years have passed since the division of social welfare has been set up, under which treatment for young offenders falls. This does not mean that before this period there existed no possibility of treatment for young offenders. However, the move to deal with young offenders in a more specific way was realized in 1958. Present methods of treatment need in my opinion a serious study to see whether they fit our present needs. This scientific study must be based on present treatment abroad and now this can be applied to Malta if it is to be applied at all. Also each institution must be studied to see whether it is serving its purpose mainly the treatment of youth at risk. Such a scientific study which is badly needed, requires an extended period of time and its carrying out must be undertaken by competent persons, experts in their field. I admit that although I tried as mush as possible to keep balance between throwing light on present methods of treatment in Malta and abroad, I do not claim that this is the required study. I have spoken about the present methods of treatment first of al to create an awareness that our existing services are doing wonderful work with the physical and social problems with which they are meeting. Secondly because I feel that the need for change is an urgent one in view of recent developments in treatment abroad mainly in United Kingdom with the introduction of intermediate treatment, about which I have written two chapters to discuss its complex and difficult application in United Kingdom.