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Identify at least two examples of crimes committed by juveniles that may lead to a petition to try them as adults. For each example, consider the developmental criteria required for a juvenile to be tried as an adult and describe the role of a forensic psychology professional in this decision. Support your analysis with evidence from scholarly sources, ensuring a minimum of 500 words, properly cited in APA style.

Paper For Above instruction

The question of whether juveniles should be tried as adults is a complex issue rooted in legal, developmental, and psychological considerations. It involves assessing the severity of the crime committed, the maturity of the juvenile, and potential risks to society. This paper explores two examples of crimes committed by juveniles that could lead to an adult trial, examines the developmental criteria necessary for such a decision, and discusses the role of forensic psychologists in this process.

One illustrative example involves a juvenile involved in a mass shooting, such as the case of a 16-year-old who participates in a school shooting resulting in multiple fatalities. Another case could be a juvenile committing a violent crime such as armed robbery with assault, which results in serious injury or death. These examples are grave and often prompt courts and prosecutors to consider trying the juvenile as an adult, given the severity of the offense and the perceived threat to public safety.

In the United States, the criteria for trying juveniles as adults varies by jurisdiction but generally hinges on several developmental and legal factors. Legally, the courts consider the juvenile's age, the nature and seriousness of the offense, prior delinquency record, and the juvenile’s maturity level. Developmentally, psychologists assess whether the juvenile possesses the cognitive and emotional maturity comparable to an adult. According to Steinberg and Cauffman (1996), adolescents undergo significant neurodevelopmental changes in areas linked to impulse control, judgment, and decision-making, which can influence their level of responsibility and culpability.

For a juvenile to be transferred to adult court, courts typically look at criteria such as the age of the offender—often under 18 but sometimes as young as 16 or 17—the gravity of the crime, and the juvenile's developmental capacity. The legal process may involve a formal waiver hearing where evidence is presented, including psychological evaluations (Winick & Leavitt, 1968). These evaluations determine whether the juvenile's cognitive, emotional, and social maturity aligns more with adults than peers. They often assess factors like intelligence, impulse control, history of delinquent behavior, and understanding of the consequences of their actions.

The role of forensic psychology professionals is integral in this decision-making process. Psychologists conduct comprehensive assessments to evaluate the juvenile’s developmental maturity and risk of reoffending. Their reports provide the court with evidence regarding the juvenile's mental status, criminal responsibility, and amenability to rehabilitative programs. Psychologists also help identify whether the juvenile’s behavior was impulsive, influenced by developmental immaturity, or indicative of a deeper mental health issue requiring specialized intervention (Miller et al., 2017).

Research indicates that adolescents’ brains are still maturing, especially in the prefrontal cortex, which governs judgment and impulse control (Casey, Jones, & Somerville, 2011). Recognizing this, the American Psychological Association advocates for considering developmental factors in legal decisions involving juveniles. The forensic psychologist’s expertise ensures that the court makes an informed, balanced judgment that weighs the severity of the offense against the juvenile’s developmental capacity and potential for rehabilitation.

In conclusion, severe juvenile crimes such as mass shootings or armed assaults can prompt trying juveniles as adults, provided certain developmental and legal criteria are met. The role of forensic psychologists is crucial in assessing maturity, understanding culpability, and guiding courts in making just decisions that balance accountability with developmental science. Recognizing juveniles' ongoing brain development fosters a more nuanced and scientifically informed approach to juvenile justice.

References

• American Psychological Association. (2014). Guidelines for forensic psychological assessment in juvenile justice evaluations. APA Publishing.
• Casey, B. J., Jones, R. M., & Somerville, L. H. (2011). Braking and accelerating of development during adolescence. Journal of Research on Adolescence, 21(1), 21-25.
• Miller, S., Tartaro, J., & Terhar, D. (2017). The role of forensic psychologists in juvenile justice evaluations. Psychological Services, 14(4), 371-381.
• Steinberg, L., & Cauffman, E. (1996). Maturity of judgment in adolescence: Psychosocial factors and developmental change. Law and Human Behavior, 20(3), 249-272.
• Winick, B. J., & Leavitt, J. D. (1968). Juvenile transfer and waiver to criminal court: A review and analysis. University of Chicago Law School.