Specific objectives of these institutional programs and their measurements are listed under ther following categories: improving the delinquent's self-image, sense of personal responsibility, and socialization; increasing survival skills, especially education; and protecting the youth, staff, and community from harm. Results of the Youth Opinion Poll, a 120-item test of attitudes and values, are described, although they have displayed little or no relation to arrest outcomes. Analysis of educational achievement scores indicates that the higher the academic level at release, the lower the rearrest probability. Moreover, the centers have achieved high rates of educational progress with academically disadvantaged youth. Other evaluation criteria used include number of assaults and reduction in truancy. A 1980 review of the 1975 length-of-stay goals concluded that the goal of releasing most youths in secure institutions within 11 months was still appropriate, even though the institutional population had changed. Tables illustrate progress toward these objectives. In order to evaluate program effectiveness, the arrest outcomes of youths at 3 and 12 months after release are examined. Since most arrests occur within the first 3 months, this appears to be the critical readjustment period. Trends in the institutional population, waiting lists, and intake are summarized. The evaluation criteria are also applied to a regional detention center which provides short-term custody and assessment services to 9 counties. The appendixes contain a summary of evaluations completed between 1974 and 1976, profiles of youths in various institutions, and statistics on offenders' ages at intake and release.