NCJ Number
116653
Date Published
1989
Length
20 pages
Annotation
The history and origins of American delinquency laws and the control system for dealing with problem youths are presented.
Abstract
The foundations of the current juvenile system, formed by the early part of this century, are detailed. It is noted that the juvenile court operated informally; Appellate courts ruled against applying constitutional rights afforded to accused adults to juvenile proceedings. This two-component structure of delinquency laws is outlined. In most State jurisdictions, delinquency statutes include violations of criminal law plus status offenses. It is noted that a sizable percentage of juvenile court cases today involve conduct such as incorrigibility and sexual immorality. Various methods of juvenile correction are examined, yet institutionalization continues to have broad appeal as a method for dealing with juvenile offenders. Ideological debates concerning correctional practices and philosophies are presented. References.