NCJ Number
85302
Journal
Juvenile and Family Court Journal Volume: 33 Issue: 2 Dated: (May 1982) Pages: 45-50
Date Published
1982
Length
6 pages
Annotation
The current philosophy and operation of the juvenile corrections system is examined critically and reforms recommended.
Abstract
The juvenile justice system is based on the concept of the State as parents. Critics of the system have argued that the system provides neither the protections accorded to adults nor the care assumed for children. The options made available by societal institutions including the justice system, fail to view adolescence as a life stage and fail to account for adolescent concerns. The correctional system views adolescence entirely from the middle-class perspective in which hard work and self-discipline are valued and rewarded. This perspective creates risk groups, generally composed of minority youths, who come from an environment in which opportunities are often blocked and fate and luck appear to predominate. In the destructive environment of institutions, the long-term needs and concerns of youths often emerged traumatized by the experience. The institutional approach to youth represents misplaced benevolence in that it limits options and narrows futures of the youth it serves. The emphasis is on control, and the environment produces a constant struggle for survival. Treatment programs are often only control mechanisms. The correctional system needs to change to a policy of decarceration and must take a more consumer-oriented approach to its clients. For example, a voucher system could be used so that youths could identify the services which they want and need. Although reform is risky, the system needs to face the challenge to change its priorities and tasks. Reference notes are provided.