How does the criminal justice system typically handle juvenile offenders?

The criminal justice system typically handles juvenile offenders with a strong emphasis on rehabilitation rather than punishment. This approach recognizes that young people are still developing and are more amenable to change than adults. The focus is on redirecting their behavior and providing them with the support, education, and therapy necessary to reintegrate them into society successfully.

Programs for juveniles often include counseling, educational opportunities, community service, and various intervention strategies aimed at preventing future delinquency. This philosophy aligns with the understanding that many juvenile offenders come from challenging backgrounds and that addressing underlying issues can lead to more positive outcomes.

Other approaches mentioned, such as sentencing to prison without exception or trying juveniles as adults for all crimes, tend to ignore the potential for transformation and the differing maturity levels between youths and adults. The option of providing no support or guidance also misrepresents the intent of the juvenile justice system, which aims to support rehabilitation.