Juvenile Delinquency

Doc's CJ Glossary by Adam J. McKee
Course: Introduction / Juvenile Justice

Juvenile delinquency refers to the behavior of minors who commit crimes or engage in actions that are otherwise considered unlawful.


Juvenile delinquency is a complex social issue, and many factors can contribute to a young person’s involvement in criminal behavior. These may include individual factors such as a history of abuse or neglect, mental health issues, or substance abuse problems. Social factors such as poverty, family dysfunction, and peer pressure can also contribute to juvenile delinquency.

The response to juvenile delinquency varies depending on the jurisdiction and the severity of the offense. In some cases, young offenders may be processed through the juvenile court system, which is designed to focus on rehabilitation and provide a more individualized approach to justice. In more serious cases, juveniles may be tried as adults and subject to the same criminal justice system as adult offenders.

Overall, juvenile delinquency is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach to address. This may involve a combination of prevention efforts, such as community-based programs and education initiatives, as well as interventions to address the underlying issues that may be contributing to a young person’s involvement in criminal behavior.


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Last Modified: 03/09/2023

 

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