Originally published in 1961, when delinquency and its cure constituted one of the gravest problems facing modern society. The term ‘delinquent’ had a wide meaning, and the authors define its scope for the purposes of this book. They do not deal only with those who appeared before the courts. They include all, juvenile or adult, whose attitude to society may lead them into breaking the law, if it had not already done so. Their aim was to show how a considerable number of these delinquents may be successfully treated ‘in the open’ – in their own home environment – enabling them to conform to acceptable standards of behaviour.

This is essentially a practical book, directed towards all those who came into contact with the problem in every field of social work, and also the interested layperson.

After a concise survey of modern theory on delinquency and discussion on diagnosis, the authors examine in detail the ‘curative’ relationship which plays so vital a part in what they term ‘treatment in the open by social worker’. The specific problems of schools are dealt with and a chapter is devoted to the female delinquent. Interviewing, home-visiting, recording and assessment of cases are fully treated. Today it can be read in its historical context.

William Leslie Herbert and Frederick Victor Jarvis at the time of publication had many years of experience in the Probation Service.