CRJ 338 - The Juvenile Justice System

This course will cover the history and philosophy of juvenile justice in America and the impact of present societal reforms on the juvenile system. A wide array of theoretical positions will be discussed and debated (e.g.- social structure theories, social process theories, social reaction theories, etc.). The influence of the family, media, peers, socioeconomic status, drugs, gang affiliation, and schools will be covered in detail. An overview of the legal framework in which the juvenile justice system operates will highlight the differences in adult and juvenile law. Students will be expected to know the landmark juvenile court cases and the current trends impacting the juvenile court. The systemic role of the police, the juvenile court, and juvenile institutions will be explored. Child abuse and neglect, status offenders, and the unique needs of young people will also be examined. Students will obtain a working knowledge of the juvenile system and an understanding of associated occupations. The study of the youth-gang subculture will be an integral portion of this course.
Lecture
Credits: 3
Prerequisite: CRJ 205
Offered in the Fall Semester