Final answer:
The main goal of the juvenile justice system is to rehabilitate young offenders to prevent future crimes, emphasizing treatment and support over punitive measures. Rehabilitation includes therapy, education, and vocational training designed to reintegrate juveniles into society as productive citizens.
Step-by-step explanation:
The main goal of the juvenile justice system is to rehabilitate rather than simply punish young offenders. This aim reflects a broader recognition that youths, due to their age and development, have a greater capacity for change compared to adults. Thus, the system is designed to prevent future crimes by addressing the underlying issues that may be contributing to the juvenile's delinquent behavior.
Rehabilitation Over Incarceration
Rehabilitation is essential in preventing recidivism among juveniles. Measures toward rehabilitation can occur as alternatives to incarceration, during incarceration, or post-release, and can include therapy, counseling, educational and vocational programs. Effective rehabilitation approaches focus on transforming juveniles into law-abiding, productive members of society.
Problems and Solutions in Juvenile Justice
The increasing number of juveniles committing serious crimes and the failure of facilities to rehabilitate them are pressing problems. Despite suggestions that juveniles should be tried as adults, research suggests that incarceration increases the likelihood of continued criminal behavior, and rehabilitation and diversion programs are more effective alternatives.