NCJ Number
119899
Journal
Juvenile and Family Court Journal Volume: 40 Issue: 3 Dated: (1989) Pages: 1-23
Date Published
1989
Length
23 pages
Annotation
This article assesses the philosophy and procedures of the juvenile justice system, concluding that young offenders should not be labeled but should be granted chances to improve and to be punished for their violations of the law.
Abstract
Juvenile judges must take responsibility for avoiding labels and awarding justice based on each delinquent's individual actions and needs. The behavioral sciences have provided many studies profiling juvenile offenders and documenting their unstable families and low self-esteem. Many States are abolishing youth reformatories and are seeking to rehabilitate youth through community-based programs. Juvenile courts should not become treatment centers or social service agencies. Instead, they should point out that coercion and punishment are legitimate functions, and they should compel people to follow standards established by the legislature or by professional associations. Punishment should be meted out when juveniles commit criminal offenses. Juvenile judges must be thoroughly trained in the important work they must do. 118 footnotes.