Final answer:
The author's main purpose in writing the article is to analyze the ethical implications of sentencing juvenile offenders to life in prison and argue for alternative measures such as diversion programs.
Step-by-step explanation:
The author's main purpose in writing the article "Do juvenile killers deserve life behind bars?" is to analyze the ethical implications of sentencing juvenile offenders to life in prison. The author discusses the ineffectiveness of juvenile incarceration and argues for alternative measures such as diversion programs. The text states, "Juvenile incarceration is often ineffective. It reduces the chances of returning to school... Diversion programs, including community service, are a more effective alternative."