If we know this pattern to be true, should we target the cessation period of crime (punishment) instead of the onset (prevention)?
It is prudent to target onset rather than cessation period. Early intervention has more economic and social benefits in the long run (Weatherburn et al.,2007). By intervening at vital transitional points, future offending can be prevented. The intervention will focus on addressing risk factors and engravement of protective factors. By targeting the onset, it positively affects the future of the early offender. A significant reduction in children involvement in crime will be achieved. Some other key social benefits include; improved performance in the classroom, improved behaviour, more participation in community development projects, and reduced chances of drug and substance abuse. Moreover, financial saving is achieved for the offender and the community at large. It includes; reduction in welfare improved income due to a higher education level and reduces cost for the justice system due to the prevention of future offenses
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Is the juvenile justice system that operates under a different philosophy justified in operating under a non-punitive philosophy knowing this spike in crime will pass?
A non-punitive measure based on the assumption that crime will pass is hazardous. It is paramount that criminal acts should be condemned, suppressed, and punished, but at the same time, these youth need to be supported and educated to become better in society. A balance between these two is critical. Juvenile crimes are only but a reflection that adolescents have not acquired understanding capabilities of adults. Key motives that lead to adolescents committing offenses are excitement or enjoyment (Farrington, 2003).
Accordingly, by not correcting criminal behaviours, they might eventually increase at late adolescent stages and be can very deadly, including committing homicide and murder (Tate et., al 1995). To avoid a turn for the worst, punitive measures are critical in outlining that it is wrong to behave in a particular manner. Despite the stringent correction, the juvenile should be given room for cognitive and social growth.
References
Farrington D, P. (2003) Developmental and life-course criminology: key theoretical Sutherland award address* and empirical issues-the 2002 . Criminology. Volume 41 (2) p:221-255
Tate, D. C., Reppucci, N. D., & Mulvey, E. P. (1995). Violent juvenile delinquents: Treatment effectiveness and implications for future action. American Psychologist, 50(9), 777. Retrieved 25 April 2020, https://psycnet.apa.org/record/1996-12712-001
Weatherburn, D., Cush, R., & Saunders, P. (2007). Screening juvenile offenders for further assessment and intervention. BOCSAR NSW Crime and Justice Bulletins, 11. Retrieved 25 April 2020, https://scholar.google.com/scholar?hl=en&as_sdt=0%2C5&q=weatherburn+early+intervention&oq=weatherburn+early+interve#d=gs_qabs&u=%23p%3D2ts7wNkfyYEJ
