11 - 16s glossary

Acceptable behaviour contract (ABC)
A set of voluntary rules to follow by someone whose behaviour is causing problems.

Action plan order
A community-based programme supervised by the Youth Offending Team. It forces young offenders to carry out a range of activities designed to keep them out of trouble, such as staying away from particular places and attending an Attendance Centre.

Accused
The person charged with a crime.

Adultery
When a married person has sex with someone who is not his/her husband or wife.

Alternative dispute resolution
This is a way of settling a disagreement without going to court. A mediator helps both sides to agree on the outcome of their dispute.

Anti-social
Being hostile or disruptive to others in society through unacceptable behaviour, e.g. vandalism.

Anti-social behaviour order (ASBO)
A special set of rules given to someone over the age of ten whose behaviour is causing problems.