The Asbo is a blunt instrument that has been oversold as an answer to antisocial behaviour since its introduction more than seven years ago.
As a punitive measure, Asbo cases have been lapped up by many sections of the media. Reporting of them has served to intensify the demonisation of young people as they purport to protect communities.
The Government, of course, insists it has a twin-track approach of sanctions and support. This week it has announced 40 "respect areas" in England and Wales, identified as "having earned the right to be exemplars of the respect programme by their strong track record in tackling antisocial behaviour". They will receive 6m for parenting classes and be encouraged to run family intervention projects and public meetings with police.
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