In this commentary, she illustrates that federal policy attention has focused on preschoolers and adolescents, ignoring the middle-childhood years and emphasizing the prevention, treatment, and punishment of problem behaviors. She argues that the proliferation of narrow programs targeting specific problems has undermined program effectiveness, and urges instead a focus on positive youth development and a shift toward flexible federal funding provided through block grants to communities. LL.B. An attorney and researcher who heads an intermediary organization focused on disadvantaged youths and young adults, Walker discusses how public attitudes toward adolescents and government shape the climate for policy initiatives. Support for any social policy initiative depends on the moral power of the issue, the effectiveness of advocacy surrounding it, and the availability of clear, understandable proposals for addressing it. Walker urges advocates to highlight mentoring programs and after-school activities as effective, popular, and concrete methods for meeting the needs of young people.
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