Asbos 'encourage young into crime'

The measures can become a "self-fulfilling prophecy" of offending and should not be applied to under-12s, the Institute for Public Policy Reform (ippr) warned.

They should also only run for a maximum of two years - rather than the 10 years currently allowed.

Asbos were one of Tony Blair's highest-profile initiatives after coming to office in 1997.

The scope of the idea has since grown steadily, with individuals being banned from specific streets, whole town centres, and even from "parking selfishly".

However, there has been criticism that the orders are draconian, applied inconsistently across the country, and slapped on children as young as 10.

The ippr's call comes ahead of the publication of the Government's Children's Plan next week, which is expected to focus on the "tweenage" years between eight and 13 when ministers believe youngsters are most likely to go off the rails.

A report due to be published by the think-tank next month warns of a burgeoning "Asbo culture" and urges that they should only be handed to children under 12 if accompanied by family or parenting orders. Anyone up to the age of 18 must be fully assessed by children's services before being hit with an order, the duration of which should only be between six months and two years.

The study will also insist that there should be more support for families whose children are identified as at risk of turning to crime, and say all adults need to be made aware of their responsibility to set "norms of behaviour" for youngsters.

Ippr co-director Carey Oppenheim said: "The problem with 'kids these days' is the way adults are treating them. Britain is in danger of becoming a nation fearful of its young people: a nation of paedophobics. We need policy which reminds adults - parents and non-parents alike - that it is their responsibility to set norms of behaviour and to maintain them through positive and authoritative interaction with young people."