Final answer:
The justice system's approach to juvenile offenders has transitioned from harsh punishments to a focus on rehabilitation, yet with persistent issues in recidivism, there's a growing trend toward trying juveniles as adults to enhance deterrence.
Step-by-step explanation:
The development of the justice systems understanding and treatment of juvenile offenders has evolved significantly over time. Initially, the system did not differentiate much between juveniles and adults, often resulting in severe penalties for young offenders, including capital punishment. However, as the understanding of youth development and psychology grew, so did the push for reform. This led to the establishment of separate juvenile facilities aimed at rehabilitation instead of simple punishment. These facilities, however, have not always been successful in this mission, as demonstrated by the continued life of crime by some youths after release.
In recent times, with rising concerns about serious crimes committed by juveniles, there has been a shift in some jurisdictions toward trying juveniles as adults. This model suggests that by treating juveniles as adults, the system might provide a more appropriate level of deterrence and prevent recidivism. This idea is controversial and represents ongoing debates about the most effective ways to address juvenile crime, with the aim of improving overall public safety.