Juvenile delinquency has always been a problem in the American society. In the past, there were times when these crimes will escalate or get more violent. This necessitated changes in the policies by law enforcement officers to meet the growing problem. Among these changes were the imposition of juvenile transfer laws, prosecutorial discretion and even capital punishment for juveniles.
Recently, however, there is a significant decrease in the reported cases of juvenile delinquency. Experts say that the decrease in juvenile delinquency may make the authorities complacent and affect efforts to control the delinquent behavior among youths. When this happens sociologists say that in the coming years it is possible that the problem of juvenile delinquency may get worse.
In 2010, the United States Supreme Court issued a ruling that sentencing a juvenile to spend the rest of his life in prison for a non-homicide crime without any opportunity for release on parole is cruel and unusual punishment which violates the Eight Amendment.
The decision is wise in the sense that juveniles should be treated separately from adults. The penalty imposable for adults who commit the crime is not applicable to them. Juvenile transfers, prosecutorial discretion and other laws that treat and punish juveniles in the same manner as adults should be discontinued as these laws are only pushing these juveniles who need to be rehabilitated towards becoming recidivists.
However, I also believe that we should not be complacent in ensuring that the young children continue to walk to the right path. It should be stressed that youths today are still exposed to drugs, alcohol, gangs, child abuse and neglect. In fact these problems which can contribute to juvenile delinquency are worse today compared to the past years.
Researchers and sociologists say that complacency has no place in the efforts to control juvenile delinquency. Juvenile curfews and parental responsibility statutes should continue to be strictly implemented. Young children should not be allowed to loiter at night. Parents should be imposed responsibility in ensuring that their children are properly guided.
Below are list of sample essays that you can use in writing your essay on juvenile delinquency and juvenile crime:
1. Impact of Juvenile Delinquency on the Society
2. Essay on the Alternatives to Punishment of Underage Children
3. Argumentative Essay on Juvenile Transfer
4. Essay on Alternatives to Juvenile Detention
5. Essay on Juvenile Justice System
6. Essay on Juveniles in Detention Facilities and Prison
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