Abstract
Subjects read a report describing an experiment in which juvenile offenders were to be randomly allocated either to the usual system of treatment, namely, institutionalization, or to a community-based treatment using family therapy to facilitate the communication of problems within the family unit. Generally, subjects reacted favourably to the hypothetical program, perceiving it to be scientific and morally justified. One variable which influenced reaction was the possible negative side effects of the method of therapy. When such effects were explicitly stated in the accounts subjects were less favourable to the program and judged the program administrator to be less competent. Similarities and differences between the present study and a comparable one by Hillis and Wortman (1976) which used a medical experiment as an issue are discussed, together with recommendations for administrators who wish to mount community welfare programs.
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.