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Pros And Cons Of Trying Youth As Adults

1487 Words6 Pages

The idea of trying youth as adults has proven to be a controversial issue over time. To this day, there is still debate as to whether or not it is the right decision to try our youth as adults. Surrounding the practice of trying youth as adults, two significant perspectives emerge: the recognition of developmental factors and the consideration of racial disparities. As we examine the school-to-prison pipeline and developmental considerations, which I personally find significant, it will be necessary to explore factors such as adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and the bioecological systems. Both factors play major roles in shaping a young individual’s development in both emotional and cognitive domains. When analyzing racial disparities …show more content…

It can be argued that trying juveniles as adults doesn’t take into consideration the maturity or the development of the individual (Regoli, 2019). When we look at an individual's development, it’s important to consider both adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and the bioecological system. Youth’s development is dependent on the environment in which they are raised and grow. This is why we also consider Bronfenbrenner’s bioecological systems theory. Factors such as an individual’s school, family, friends, or community all contribute to the individual’s development. Those who have poor relationships with family and friends, living in a low SES community may not be developmentally at the same level as those who grow up in a high SES community with secure …show more content…

Developmental consideration exhibits the crucial role that adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and the bioecological systems play in shaping a young individual's development. Trying juveniles as adults fails to account for their maturity and unique developmental circumstances, lessening their chances of rehabilitation and growth. Racial disparities begin early in the education system and commence a cycle of discrimination and limited opportunities for young individuals based on their race or social status. It has become clear that trying youth as adults is an ineffective and unjust approach for reform. By making a commitment to and fostering a fair and effective justice system that takes into account developmental factors and eliminates racial disparities, we can actually help youth. An effective system would help promote their well-being and nurture their potential to contribute positively to society and be the best individual they can

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