NCJ Number
182304
Journal
International Journal of Police Science and Management Volume: 2 Issue: 4 Dated: March 2000 Pages: 337-347
Date Published
March 2000
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This paper reviews the historical development of juvenile justice in America, provides critical analysis of the governmental perspective, identifies current and prospective program models, and examines trends that will shape juvenile justice in the 21st century.
Abstract
These trends include changing demographics, the escalation of violence by adolescents, and public frustration with crime. It is incumbent upon researchers and reformers to identify those elements of the juvenile justice system that are rational, as well as those that should be replaced. Policy trends of the past 15 years have been reactionary and often born of frustration. Additionally, intolerance toward the few violent juveniles, the urge to develop "quick fixes," and the belief that youth have been coddled too long in the name of "parens patriae" have driven policy. Initiatives must recognize that effective models for treatment and rehabilitation require early intervention, support for family stability, improved parenting skills, and violence reduction measures. Moreover, strategies must embrace an ecological perspective. That is, collaborative efforts must be made between the juvenile justice system and other interaction service systems, i.e., education, health, welfare, and families. Juvenile justice should continue the individualized treatment approach as the primary goal of juvenile justice. Chronic serious juvenile offenders must be retained within the jurisdiction of the juvenile court, so as to provide specialized programs and facilities that focus on restoration rather than punishment. Juvenile court dispositions must have a flexible range for restricting freedom, with the primary goal of restoration to full liberty rather than punishment to fit the crime. 27 references