Mass incarceration of juveniles

Do you agree with your peer about the ethical decisions that should be considered? Why or why not?
Which of the ethical decisions your peer mentioned do you think is the best? Why?
What are the ethical implications of the decision you identified in response two?
NICOLE POST

Mass incarceration of juveniles has been an issue related to global justice that I have noticed a lot in the media lately. A lot of this young individuals are throwing their lives away over something that could have been avoided, simply talked out, or their actions could have been a means to survive. In today’s society, these youths are going down the wrong path. Causing them to spend the rest of their lives or majority of it in a world they are not ready for. Many find their selves in these situations because that want to be down, noticed, or a part of something, or had no choice. Sad reality is they truly don’t know what they are getting their selves involved in, until they are standing in front of a judge and sentenced. Using the utilitarian framework, building community centers that teens can use as safe havens instead of turning to the streets would help reduce youth incarceration. Providing tutors, computers, counselors, mentors, STEM, video games, food, comfort, and security. A place where they can relax and be teens. Having assistance programs that are youth-based where food and clothes vouchers can be allocated to those who need it. Shelters where they are not judged but given resources that will be used as a steppingstone, and not seen as a crouch that will hinder them from progression. Also, prison reform would help benefit these young offenders, by giving them something to look forward to. Implementing programs where they learn a trade, get their GED, or a certificate that they can use in the outside world. Mental health, so the root of their issues can be addressed. Giving them tools, that will help them strengthen and build a better person, where they have the necessities to turn their lives around and want better. All of these options have the benefits and abilities of helping these youths. However, with limited money, resources, and funding, this is going to be on ongoing issue.

Full Answer Section

       
  • Early Intervention: Investing in early childhood education and mental health services can help prevent youth from entering the criminal justice system.
  • Data-Driven Decision Making: Using data to identify risk factors and target interventions can improve the effectiveness of prevention and rehabilitation efforts.
  • Collaboration: Collaboration between law enforcement, social services, and community organizations is essential to implement effective interventions.

By addressing these ethical considerations and implementing evidence-based strategies, we can work towards reducing juvenile incarceration and creating a more just and equitable society.

Sample Answer

       

Nicole's post offers a thoughtful and compassionate perspective on the issue of juvenile incarceration. Her suggestion to prioritize community-based interventions, such as youth centers and mentorship programs, aligns with a restorative justice approach. This approach emphasizes rehabilitation and reintegration rather than punishment.

The Ethical Implications of Community-Based Interventions

While community-based interventions are a promising approach, it's important to consider the ethical implications of such programs:

  1. Effectiveness: It's crucial to ensure that these programs are evidence-based and have proven effectiveness in reducing recidivism and improving the lives of young offenders.
  2. Equity and Access: These programs should be accessible to all young people, regardless of their socioeconomic status or geographic location.
  3. Accountability: There must be mechanisms in place to monitor and evaluate the outcomes of these programs to ensure that they are achieving their goals.
  4. Balancing Rights and Responsibilities: While focusing on rehabilitation, it's essential to balance the rights of victims and the need for justice.

Additional Considerations:

  • Early Intervention: Investing in early childhood education and mental health services can help prevent youth from entering the criminal justice system.