Juvenile Justice

Introduction to juvenile justice

Michele Lira

CJS/240

August 19, 2012

Asharani Moore

Individual Corrections and Treatment

One community-based treatment is probation. Probation refers to nonpunitive legal dispositions for delinquent youths, emphasizing treatment without incarceration. Probation is the primary form of community treatment used by the juvenile justice system. When a juvenile is on probation they are maintained in the community under the supervision of a probation officer of the court. There are rules and regulations that the juvenile offender must obey by for them to remain in the community.

Another community-based treatment effort is group homes. Group homes are nonsecure residences that provide counseling, education, job training, and family living. They are staffed by a small number of qualified persons, and generally house twelve to fifteen youngsters. The institutional quality of the environment is minimized, and the kids are given the opportunity to build a close relationship with the staff. They reside in the home, attend public schools, and participate in community activities.

One issue affecting institutionalized juveniles is education. Education programs are the best-staffed programs in training schools, but even at their best, most are inadequate. Education programs contend with myriad problems. Many youths coming into these institutions are mentally challenged, have learning disabilities, and are far behind their grade levels in basic academics. The juvenile justice system should be concerned with this issue because most juveniles will become frustrated with the educational experience, dislike school, and become bored with any type of educational program. When that happens the juvenile may become a criminal.

Another issue affecting institutionalized juveniles is boot camps. Correctional boot camps combine the get-tough elements of adult programs with education, substance-abuse treatment, and social skills training. The...