Juvenile Justice Reform: a Call for Change

As children, friendships across diverse social classes often introduce us to a range of lifestyles and perspectives. Some enjoy a “Leave it to Beaver” home life, while others face hardship and instability, lacking basic necessities like food and shelter. This stark contrast in upbringing underscores the importance of parental involvement and societal support in shaping a child's future. The role of hardworking and devoted parents is crucial in fostering a better society, as it significantly influences an individual's success and their approach to life.

The Role of Discipline and Environment

Discipline is a vital component in a child’s development, guiding them towards making sound decisions as they grow older. Unfortunately, not all children receive this guidance, and some experience the trauma of seeing friends or family members incarcerated at a young age. This can have a lasting impact on their lives and their communities. The process of trying juveniles as adults can exacerbate this trauma, leading to lifelong consequences for the young individuals involved. After researching the impact of juvenile incarceration, it becomes clear that juveniles should not be tried as adults.

When children face family hardships, they often lack the parental guidance necessary to discern right from wrong as teenagers. This absence of support increases the likelihood of associating with the wrong crowd and making poor choices, such as experimenting with drugs or engaging in criminal activities. The influence of the internet and social media further complicates this issue, providing access to harmful content that can lead to delinquency. Television shows frequently depict violence and substance abuse, contributing to a culture that normalizes these behaviors. Without proper discipline and guidance, children are vulnerable to these negative influences.

Parental Involvement and Education

Parental involvement in a child's education is crucial for their success both in school and in life. Engaged parents set expectations and provide guidance, which helps children become responsible citizens. When parents neglect their role in their children's education, it creates a void that teachers alone cannot fill. Education should be a collaborative effort between parents and educators, working together to mold children into successful individuals. Unfortunately, the lack of parental involvement contributes to juvenile delinquency. Statistics reveal that juveniles accounted for a significant percentage of violent and property crime arrests in 1999, a peak period for juvenile crime (PBS.org).

Some states argue that sentencing juveniles as adults will deter crime, but evidence suggests otherwise. In Minneapolis, Minnesota, juveniles were responsible for 63 percent of violent crimes (Johnson). This data indicates that harsher penalties do not necessarily prevent juvenile crime. Instead, it highlights the need for a more comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of delinquency.

Understanding Adolescent Development

It’s a common misconception that by a certain age, juveniles should inherently understand right from wrong. However, scientific research shows that the human brain does not fully develop until the mid to late twenties (Schiraldi). The phrase “Old enough to commit the crime, old enough to do the time” fails to recognize this developmental reality. Juveniles are not adults, and exposing them to the adult prison system can have detrimental effects.

The juvenile justice system was established in the United States in 1899 to provide a more rehabilitative approach for young offenders (Gulstad). Despite this intent, many juveniles are still tried as adults, facing the harsh realities of adult prisons. Being housed with adult offenders exposes juveniles to negative influences and increases the risk of further criminal behavior. Instead of serving as a rehabilitative experience, prison often exacerbates the problem. Juveniles are subjected to violence and abuse, with a significantly higher risk of sexual victimization than adults in similar circumstances (Lahey).

Rehabilitation and Support Systems

The Prison Rape Elimination Act of 2003 mandates the separation of juveniles from adult inmates, yet some states continue to violate this regulation, endangering young offenders. The psychological and physical toll of incarceration can lead to severe consequences, including an increased likelihood of suicide among juveniles housed with adults. Beyond physical safety, incarcerated juveniles often lack access to education and mental health services, crucial components for rehabilitation. A 2005 survey found that 40% of jails and prisons offered no educational services, depriving young inmates of opportunities to learn and grow.

When juveniles are sentenced as adults, they receive an adult criminal record, which severely limits their future prospects. This barrier to education and employment increases the likelihood of recidivism, perpetuating a cycle of incarceration that is both costly and ineffective. Studies indicate that juveniles processed through the adult system are 34 percent more likely to reoffend (Lahey). This cycle underscores the need for a justice system that prioritizes rehabilitation over punishment.

Towards a Better Solution

Ethically, it is troubling to subject young individuals to the adult prison system, expecting it to serve as a form of rehabilitation. Instead, we must explore alternative solutions that address the underlying issues of juvenile delinquency. The education system should play a more active role in rehabilitation, identifying and supporting troubled students before they enter the justice system. Social workers and educators can guide students towards positive choices, but they need adequate resources and support.

Parents, too, should be held accountable for their children's behavior, just as they are for truancy. Government initiatives could focus on funding programs for mentally troubled juveniles and those lacking parental support, providing a safety net for at-risk youth. By investing in preventive measures and support systems, we can create a more effective approach to juvenile justice.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the reasons juveniles should not be tried as adults are manifold. While juveniles may commit crimes similar to adults, their cognitive development and potential for rehabilitation must be considered. With the right support and guidance, juveniles can learn from their mistakes and build a brighter future. By focusing on rehabilitation and education, rather than punishment, we can break the cycle of juvenile incarceration and foster a society where all children have the opportunity to succeed.

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