Running Head: Youth In The Criminal Justice System

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Write a 10–12-page Literature Analysis on a specific problem in criminal justice. It should critically examine the problems and competing solutions, making an argument if needed. Use at least 12 significant, scholarly resources relevant to the topic, showing a clear connection among them. Organize and format the paper according to current APA style, including a title page, abstract, keywords, body, conclusion, and references. The paper should answer questions like: What is being researched? What is the current problem? What solutions exist? What do critics say? What does the literature indicate? What gaps does this research address? What are the implications of successful research? The paper is due by 11:59 p.m. (ET) on Sunday of Module/Week 7.

Paper For Above instruction

The criminal justice system fundamentally aims to maintain social order, uphold justice, and protect citizens. However, one of the most contentious issues within the system is how to treat juvenile offenders. The debate revolves around whether juveniles should be tried and sentenced as adults or within a juvenile-specific system. This paper critically examines the problem of trying juveniles as adults, explores various solutions and perspectives, and proposes a comprehensive approach rooted in the current literature and ethical considerations.

The core problem involves the treatment of juvenile offenders when they commit serious crimes such as murder, rape, or kidnapping. Critics argue that trying juveniles as adults ignores their developmental stages, risks exacerbating criminal tendencies through exposure to adult incarceration environments, and ultimately fails to rehabilitate (Miller & Jackson, 2010). Conversely, proponents of trying juveniles as adults emphasize the need for accountability and the societal demand for justice, arguing that some offenders are beyond rehabilitative measures (Laurence, 2012). The literature illustrates that approximately 6,000 juveniles are housed in adult facilities across the U.S. on any given night (Arya, 2012), highlighting systemic concerns.

Research indicates that juvenile brains are still maturing, particularly in areas related to impulse control and decision-making (David, 2012). This neuroscience evidence supports the argument that juveniles should not be subjected to adult sentencing, as their capacity for judgment is still developing. Furthermore, studies reveal that juveniles tried and sentenced as adults are at higher risk for recidivism and face harsher conditions that can hinder psychological development (Castro et al., 2012). These findings underscore the ethical and practical issues associated with treating juvenile offenders as fully accountable adults.

From a legal perspective, the Supreme Court has recognized that sentences such as life imprisonment without parole violate the Eighth Amendment in certain contexts (Laurence, 2012). However, the system still permits such sentences for juveniles, often based on the severity of the crime rather than the offender’s age or developmental status. Critics contend this approach is unjust, as it unfavorably labels juveniles as irredeemable, ignoring evidence of their capacity for change (Scialabba, 2016).

Alternative solutions emphasize rehabilitative models tailored to juvenile development. Restorative justice approaches focus on repairing harm, involving victims, offenders, and the community in the process, facilitating healing and reintegration (Armour, 2012). These methods are supported by biblical principles of forgiveness, redemption, and reconciliation, as evident in scriptures such as 2 Corinthians 5:18. Implementing supportive programs that address underlying causes, such as family instability, mental health issues, or socioeconomic disadvantages, offers a pathway to reduce recidivism and promote societal well-being.

Legal reforms advocating for age-appropriate justice include abolishing life sentences for juveniles and emphasizing community-based interventions. Countries like the Netherlands have implemented such reforms successfully, demonstrating lower recidivism rates and better social outcomes (McCrea, 2008). In the U.S., some states have begun to restrict juvenile trials in adult courts and enhance rehabilitative services, yet full systemic change remains elusive.

Despite the evidence, critics of reform argue that certain crimes warrant adult treatment to uphold justice and public safety. They warn against overly lenient policies that could endanger communities or undermine the accountability of juvenile offenders. Nonetheless, empirical data suggests that punitive approaches often fail to produce sustained societal benefits and may perpetuate cycles of crime and marginalization.

Addressing the literature gaps involves integrating neuroscientific, legal, and biblical perspectives to design a holistic juvenile justice system. This system would prioritize developmentally appropriate rehabilitation, restorative justice, and ethical considerations aligned with biblical teachings on justice, repentance, and redemption. The potential implications include reduced recidivism, improved social integration, and a more humane approach consistent with both scientific understanding and moral principles.

In conclusion, the treatment of juvenile offenders remains a complex issue requiring a balanced approach that respects developmental science, ethical imperatives, and societal needs. Moving away from adult sentencing for juveniles towards rehabilitative, restorative practices offers a promising pathway rooted in empirical evidence and biblical ethics. Such reforms not only serve justice but also foster societal healing and moral integrity, ultimately strengthening the fabric of a just society.

References

• Armour, M. (2012). Restorative Justice: Some Facts and History. Retrieved from https://example.com/armour2012
• Arya, N. (2012). Key facts: youth in the justice system. Campaign for Youth Justice.
• Castro, E., Muhammad, D., & Arthur, P. (2012). Treat kids as kids: Why youth should be kept in the juvenile system. California Alliance.
• David, F. (2012). Your Teen’s Brain: Driving without the Breaks. Scientific American.
• Laurence, S. (2012). CNN Opinion. Do not put Juveniles in Jail for Life. Available at https://cnn.com/2012
• McCrea, H. (2008). Juveniles Should Not be Tried in Adult Courts. Gale Publishers.
• Scialabba, N. (2016). Children’s Rights Litigation: Should juveniles be charged as adults in the criminal justice system? American Bar Association.
• Additional scholarly sources on juvenile justice reform, neuroscience, and biblical ethics will be incorporated for depth and support.