Complete The Required Reading And Presentations ✓ Solved

Complete the required reading and presentations in the Reading

Complete the required reading and presentations in the Reading & Study folder. Then write a paper which addresses what you believe are the most important issues facing the juvenile justice system today and how does this affect the system in the future? What are some ways that the juvenile justice system be revitalized? In order to have the possibility of receiving full points, you must complete your answer entirely. This includes 4 fully developed pages include correct usage of APA format, your Christian world view, and relevant in-text support for both.

The title-page, abstract, and reference page(s) are not included in the page count requirement.

Paper For Above Instructions

The juvenile justice system is an area of great concern within the broader scope of criminal justice, particularly as it grapples with significant challenges that not only affect present operations but also shape its future. This paper will explore critical issues currently facing the juvenile justice system, including systemic inequality, mental health needs, and the impact of social media and technology. Furthermore, it will discuss strategies to revitalize the juvenile justice system, aligning with a Christian worldview that emphasizes redemption, rehabilitation, and support for youth.

Systemic Inequality

One of the most pressing issues in the juvenile justice system today is systemic inequality. Disparities in how juveniles are treated based on race, socio-economic status, and geographic location significantly affect the outcomes for young offenders. Research indicates that minority and low-income youth face harsher penalties and are more frequently incarcerated than their white counterparts. According to the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (2021), African American youth are overrepresented in juvenile detention centers, which points to a critical need for reform aimed at equitable treatment.

This systemic inequality not only impacts the individuals involved but also perpetuates cycles of poverty and crime within communities. Addressing these disparities is critical for creating a more just and effective juvenile justice system that promotes rehabilitation rather than punishment. This aligns with a Christian worldview, which advocates for the fair treatment of all individuals and emphasizes the importance of love and justice in societal systems (Wright, 2018).

Mental Health Needs

The mental health needs of juveniles in the justice system also require urgent attention. Many young offenders come from backgrounds marked by trauma, abuse, and neglect, which can exacerbate behavioral issues. Unfortunately, mental health services within the juvenile justice system are often inadequate. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (2020), approximately 70% of the youth in juvenile justice systems have a mental health condition, yet many do not receive necessary treatment.

Addressing the mental health needs of juveniles is crucial not only for their well-being but also for reducing recidivism rates. Implementing comprehensive mental health screenings and providing access to therapeutic services can offer these youth the support they need to reintegrate into society successfully. This approach reflects the Christian belief in healing and restoration, emphasizing the importance of caring for the whole person rather than solely focusing on punitive measures (Balswick & Goering, 2019).

Impact of Social Media and Technology

Additionally, the rise of social media and technology presents unique challenges for the juvenile justice system. Cyberbullying, online harassment, and the sharing of harmful content can lead to increased rates of delinquent behavior among youth. A study by Kowert et al. (2020) found that adolescents who engage in excessive social media use are more likely to exhibit delinquent behavior, highlighting the need for the juvenile justice system to adapt to these modern challenges.

To effectively address issues stemming from technology, the juvenile justice system could benefit from educational programs that teach young people about responsible online behavior and the legal consequences of their actions. This proactive approach not only helps prevent delinquency but also fosters a sense of accountability, aligning with Christian teachings on responsibility and community care (McCoy, 2021).

Revitalizing the Juvenile Justice System

To revitalize the juvenile justice system, several strategies can be implemented. First, adopting restorative justice practices can transform how the system approaches juvenile offenses. Restorative justice emphasizes repairing harm through cooperative processes that include victims, offenders, and the community. This model encourages accountability and promotes healing, which can significantly reduce recidivism rates among youth (Umbreit, 2018).

Moreover, implementing diversion programs that redirect youth away from the formal justice system can prevent them from acquiring a criminal record and the associated negative consequences. Programs that focus on education, mentorship, and skill development create positive trajectories for youth, helping them avoid further encounters with the justice system (Ferguson, 2020).

Finally, promoting collaboration among various stakeholders, including schools, mental health providers, and community organizations, is essential in offering a holistic support network for youth. By working together, these entities can address the underlying issues that contribute to juvenile delinquency, fostering an environment that promotes well-being and rehabilitation (Cullen et al., 2019).

Conclusion

In conclusion, the juvenile justice system faces critical challenges that must be addressed to create a more equitable and effective framework for youth. Addressing systemic inequality, meeting mental health needs, and adapting to technological changes are essential steps toward improving outcomes for young offenders. By revitalizing the juvenile justice system through restorative practices, diversion programs, and collaborative support networks, society can work towards a system that embodies the values of justice, rehabilitation, and hope, resonating with Christian principles.

References

• Balswick, J. O., & Goering, A. (2019). Family Health: A Christian Perspective on the Family. Baker Academic.
• Cullen, F. T., Jonson, C. L., & Nagin, D. S. (2019). The Encyclopedia of Corrections. Wiley-Blackwell.
• Ferguson, C. J. (2020). Youth Behavioral Health and Juvenile Justice. American Psychological Association.
• Kowert, R., Domaradzka, A., & Houghton, D. (2020). Social Media and Youth Delinquency. Journal of Youth and Adolescence.
• McCoy, M. (2021). Cyberbullying: Implications and Prevention. Youth and Society.
• National Alliance on Mental Illness. (2020). Mental Health Conditions among Youth in the Juvenile Justice System.
• Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention. (2021). Juvenile Justice Statistics.
• Umbreit, M. (2018). Restorative Justice: A Sentencing Option for Juvenile Offenders. National Institute of Justice.
• Wright, N. T. (2018). Simply Jesus: A New Vision of Who He Was, What He Did, and Why He Matters. HarperOne.