The Many Hats of Juvenile Probation Officers: A Latent Class Analysis of Work

The role of juvenile probation officers (JPOs) involves a balancing act between “child saving” and community safety activities. In this study, we examine JPOs’ supervision strategies and how these fit within a juvenile justice framework. Using surveys and latent class analysis, we examine the extent to which JPOs engage in a variety of case management and supervision strategies. Findings reveal little evidence supporting a purely law enforcement role and identified a new class of JPOs that does not fit within the traditional role definitions but focuses on a pro forma role that was nonengaged in case management and supervision activities