TV REVIEW : Cronkite Takes a Look at ‘Our Families, Our Future’

We know all about the disintegration of the American family and the epidemics in juvenile crime, teen pregnancies and child abuse. Now, for the good news.

In “Our Families, Our Future” (at 11 tonight on KCET-TV Channel 28), host Walter Cronkite takes viewers on an encouraging tour of experimental family support programs across the country. In innovative, cost-effective ways, at-risk parents and children are learning the skills necessary to function as a family unit, diminishing the potential for serious problems that cost the United States $13 billion annually for the juvenile justice system and foster care.

A few of the many programs highlighted: In Tennessee, a family preservation program ameliorates abusive situations that go to court with months of intensive crisis intervention; 70% of families are still together after a year.

A program in Tucson, Ariz., goes even further. Screening new parents in maternity wards, it determines the potential for child abuse and counsels those at risk for five years.

Meanwhile, in Cleveland, Ohio, young fathers who have abandoned their children are taught to value them, to become part of their lives and to take legal responsibility for them.

Society tends to demand instant remedies, even when a longer view could save money and be more effective. This thoughtful documentary by Roger Weisberg shows that short-term, punitive measures are clearly inferior to inclusive, preventive programs that offer emotional support, information and education.

One question for KCET, though: Why give something so hopeful such a throwaway time slot?