NCJ Number
139386
Journal
Media Studies Journal Volume: 6 Issue: 1 Dated: (Winter 1992), 119-130
Date Published
1992
Length
12 pages
Annotation
Statistics show that, while the number of incarcerated juveniles is increasing in the United States, the rate of youth arrests for serious crimes has declined. Public perceptions that juvenile crime is skyrocketing have led to this discrepancy.
Abstract
Some experts believe that the media, which focuses its attention on violent youth crime, is at least partly to blame for public attitudes toward juvenile delinquents; only 5 to 10 percent of juvenile offenses are violent. Politicians also promote public perceptions about juvenile crime, leading to a "get tough" attitude. Reporters who wish to cover issues of juvenile delinquency need to understand the system's theoretical framework and logic; the history of juvenile justice has featured periods of rehabilitation and punishment. While there is much disagreement on these issues, there is widespread consensus on the need to separate child from adult prisoners. However, despite Federal legislation, many youthful offenders continue to be incarcerated in adult jails. The press could help revitalize the debate over juvenile justice reform by ensuring that some stories about violent crime include trend information. Furthermore, journalists should counterbalance their coverage of violent youth crimes with indepth pieces that examine aspects of the juvenile justice system.