Implementation of crime prevention programs that target youth and adolescents are affected by developmental theories in that stages of a child's life must be identified and addressed. Latent Trait theory can help explain some children at risk, and Life Course issues can be utilized to attempt to change the propensity of criminal behavior in children at a this crucial stage. Community based organizations such as the Boys & Girls Clubs and Big Brother & Big Sisters utilize developmental principles like socialization, role modeling, etc. in their prevention programs today.
In recidivism reduction programs aimed at adults, developmental theories also ...