+1 862 207 3288 Read:
• Introduction to the Sociology of Juvenile Delinquency: Chapter 10
• Juvenile Delinquency: Prevention, Assessment and Intervention: Chapters 8 and 9
After reading the above readings, answer the following questions:
Part 1
One of this week’s reading assignments focuses on juvenile diversion (i.e., redirecting juvenile offenders away from formalized criminal processing that result in traditional punitive outcomes, such as incarceration). This concept has been the topic of significant debate within academic and practitioner circles. Supporters of juvenile diversion oftentimes argue that it is beneficial because it reduces the stigma associated with traditional outcomes, and encourages rehabilitation. Supporters also argue that subjecting children to harsher tactics used by the adult justice system merely “teaches” them to become criminals. Critics argue that diversion offers a “soft” approach whereby juveniles are coddled versus punished.
After completing this week’s reading assignments, answer the following questions:
1) When it comes to the debate regarding juvenile diversion, which side of the fence do you sit on? Do you view diversion as a useful tool, or should we be focusing more on traditional punitive measures when dealing with juvenile delinquency? Thoroughly support your response using established, credible sources (versus mere opinion).
2) Regardless of whether you support the juvenile diversion concept — what are some of the potential benefits? What are some of the potential drawbacks? Support your answer.
Part 2
One of this week’s reading assignments explores whether juveniles are competent to participate in the juvenile justice process given their young age and undeveloped minds. Additional information regarding juvenile competency can be found at:
http://www.njjn.org/uploads/digital-library/NJJN_MfC_Juvenile-Competency-to-Stand-Trial_FINAL-Nov2012.pdf
After completing this week’s reading assignments and reviewing the article referenced above, answer the following questions:
1) Given the information provided in the reading assignments, do you believe the huge majority of juveniles are competent to participate in the juvenile justice process? Thoroughly explain your answer.
2) If your answer to question #1 is “yes, most juveniles are competent”… then why is it necessary to have a separate and distinct system? Should we avoid the cost and complications associated with having a separate system, and simply refer all matters to adult criminal courts? Defend your answer.
3) If your answer to question #1 is, “no, most juveniles are not competent”… then what are the potential implications? How does a society address bad decisions made on the part of individuals who really shouldn’t be held accountable for those decisions since they are not competent? Defend your answer.
References(These are the only list of references you’ll need. DO NOT USE ANY OUTSIDE RESOURCES OF YOUR OWN!)
Musick, D. (1995). An Introduction to the Sociology of Juvenile Delinquency. Albany: State University of New York Press.
National Juvenile Justice Network. (2012). Competency to stand trial in juvenile court: Recommendations for policymakers. Retrieved from http://www.njjn.org/uploads/digital-library/NJJN_MfC_Juvenile-Competency-to-Stand-Trial_FINAL-Nov2012.pdf
Redding, R. E., Goldstein, N. S., &Heilbrun, K. (2005). Juvenile Delinquency : Prevention, Assessment, and Intervention. New York: Oxford University Press.
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