Arguments for enforcing the law in juvenile courts have gained credibility because of mounting evidence against the belief that punishment and contact with the system have negative effects on recidivism. In fact, successful rehabilitation efforts have been found to be related to deterrence and punishment. Moves toward a greater emphasis on appropriate punishment can be seen in juvenile court waiver and transfer for serious juvenile offenders. Further, while the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention was initially established to encourage State compliance with social welfare-oriented reforms, it is currently participating in several projects that emphasize the accountability of juvenile offenders according to age, seriousness of offense, and prior record. 23 notes and references.