Tonight (January 13) the A&E Network begins it’s broadcasting of a seven-part series titled “Beyond Scared Straight” – supposedly a look inside “new” Scared Straight programs – but, at least based on their initial promotional videos looks an awful lot like the old Scared Straight. The producer of the series apparently does not trust the multiple research efforts that have demonstrated at best no impact, and more often a negative impact, on youthful offenders and at-risk youth – but, then again he admits to having never read it. The reality is that Scared Straight appeals to an audience that neither understands nor wants to take the time to do the hard work of learning what works with youth – seeking instead some kind of quick-fix solution that makes for good television but poor practice. Hopefully, this version will not spawn the replication of similar programs elsewhere – one would think that the research has put a stake in the heart of Scared Straight, but apparently not.
Early Care & Education: Supporting Wisconsin Families During Children’s Early Years
Regardless of race, place, or income, every child in Wisconsin deserves a strong start in life. This early foundation plays a critical role in life-long health and wellness. But systemic racism and poverty destabilizes families and communities and creates unhealthy conditions and barriers that harm children in their early development. This process of destabilization not only prevents children from having a strong start but can persist over the course of their lives.
