youth justice Flashcards
what is the age of criminal responsibility?
10
what does ‘dole incapax’ refer to?
legal principle that presumes children are incapable of committing a crime
what significant event took place in 1993 relating to youth crime and the age of criminal responsibility being lowered?
the burger case
what legislation abolishes doli incapacity?
The Crime and Disorder Act 1998, this established the youth justice board
What is the primary aim of the youth justice system according to the Crime and Disorder Act 1998?
preventing offending
What does it mean to consider young offenders as a product of their environment?
suggests their behaviour may not be entirely their fault but is influenced by external factors
What are juvenile delinquents seen as indicators of?
indicators of escalating misconduct that may lead to more serious offences
What are moral panics?
widespread fears or anxieties about young offenders leading to society overreacting
What does the term “born criminals” imply?
some individuals are inherently predisposed to criminal behaviour
why is the concept of fully developed brains relevant?
highlights that young offenders may not have the same decision-making capabilities as adults due to ongoing brain development
what does ‘short sharp shock’ refer to regarding young offenders?
controversial approach suggesting that a brief, harsh punishment may deter future offenses
what is early identification/monitoring?
recognising at-risk youth early on to provide intervention and support before they engage in criminal behaviour
what are restorative approaches?
repairing harm caused by criminal behavior through reconciliation between the offender, the victim, and the community
what is a needs-based approach?
approach addressing the underlying needs of young offenders e.g. education and mental health support, to reduce reoffending
what should be the primary focus of the YJS?
rehabilitation over punishment
how should interventions be tailored in the youth justice system?
age-appropriate, using language and methods suitable for youth’s developmental stage
What is a key practice that can be incorporated into the youth justice system?
Restorative justice practices encourage dialogue between the offender and the victim, fostering empathy and accountability
what type of support should be provided to young offenders?
Access to support services e.g. counselling, education, and family support, to address underlying issues contributing to delinquency
What is a more effective approach than institutionalisation for young offenders?
community-based solutions
Why is parental involvement important in the youth justice system?
creates a support system for the young person, leading to better outcomes and reducing the likelihood of reoffending
What training should professionals in the youth justice system receive?
Training in adolescent development and trauma-informed care for more effective interactions and interventions
How many Youth Offending Teams are there per local authority?
one
When do Youth Offending Teams get involved?
when a young person is arrested
What is the focus of regular meetings within Youth Offending Teams?
preventing further offending
What role do Youth Offending Teams play in referring services?
refer young people to other services
What responsibility do Youth Offending Teams have regarding court orders?
they manage court orders
How do Youth Offending Teams incorporate restorative justice?
to encourage accountability and repair harm
What is a key action taken when dealing with young offenders under 10?
discussions held with the parents