The problem of Juvenile Delinquency
How did the problem of Juvenile Delinquency arise? Compare and contrast how juveniles were treated in the industrial revolution and common schools. What factors led to their demise as viable means for dealing with delinquent and/or unsupervised youth? Refer to and cite current resources in your answer.
Sample Solution
he problem of juvenile delinquency arose in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as the Industrial Revolution changed the landscape of many countries and led to an increase in urbanization,
poverty, overcrowding, and family disruption. It was then that societies began to take note of a population group that had previously gone relatively unnoticed: children who were at risk for criminal behavior or simply unsupervised. To address this issue, two primary methods emerged during this time period; industrial revolution institutions such as reformatories and common schools.
Industrial revolution institutions such as reformatories, industrial homes, and orphanages separated delinquent children from their families in order to teach them values associated with hard work and punctuality by providing them with job training programs within these facilities. While these institutions aimed to create a better life for these children through education and discipline rather than punishment alone, they often failed due to issues like overcrowding, lack of resources or staff training on how best care for youth in need (Averill & Vitello-Cicciu 2020). Additionally they tended to rely heavily on religious organizations so only agreed-upon moral values were taught which could further alienate certain youths (Taft 2008).
The other popular method utilized during this era was known as “common schools” which emphasized separating delinquent boys from girls while also offering classes related to vocational skills like carpentry or domestic service (Gold 2009). This approach was less punitive than those used by reformatories but it still did not adequately focus on individualized needs of its students nor did it offer much rehabilitation outside of teaching useful skills. In addition, most common schools lacked adequate funding leading to staff cuts which ultimately resulted in lower quality learning experiences (Giaimo 2007). Furthermore the lack of variety in curricula meant only certain topics were addressed leaving many students feeling isolated or neglected if their own interests weren't being met (Schmidt 2019).
Ultimately both approaches used during the industrial revolution have been largely replaced due more effective methods today such as restorative justice practices or positive behavior support systems which aim at supporting adolescent development instead punishing delinquents for misbehavior (Kostelnik et al., 2018; Olson 2017; Hanley & Wilkinson 2013). These current approaches recognize that youthful offenders are capable of making positive changes when provided with understanding guidance instead relying solely on traditional disciplinary measures. As such there is greater focus now on addressing underlying issues driving conduct problems rather than just reacting punitively towards delinquency activities. Moreover considering most juvenile delinquents fall within a vulnerable population group subject specific services are necessary when responding appropriately too negative behaviors thus allowing for interventions tailored according to individual needs (Babar et al., 2016 ).
References:
Averill JR & Vitello-Cicciu JM (2020) The History Of Juvenile Justice Timeline – 17th Century To Present Day. Retrieved 11/02/2021 from https://www.juvenilejusticeresourcecenter.org/history-of-juvenile-justice/#17century_present_day
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