Historically, what goal has the juvenile justice system emphasized?

The juvenile justice system has historically emphasized rehabilitation as its primary goal. This focus arises from the understanding that young people are still developing and are more amenable to change than adults. The aim is to redirect juveniles away from delinquent behavior and toward constructive paths, often through educational programs, counseling, and community service. Rehabilitation seeks to address the underlying issues that contribute to delinquency, such as family problems, substance abuse, or mental health disorders.

In contrast, the concepts of deterrence, incapacitation, and justice are more prevalent in the adult criminal justice system. While these elements may play a role in juvenile justice, particularly in serious cases, the overarching philosophy has been to provide support and guidance to help juveniles reintegrate into society rather than simply punishing them. This rehabilitative focus aligns with broader social goals of preventing future crime and reducing recidivism by helping young offenders make better choices.