The question of whether juveniles should be tried as adults has long been a controversial and divisive issue. On one hand, some argue that certain young offenders should be held accountable for their actions and that trying them as adults is the only way to ensure justice is served. Others, however, argue that juveniles should not be tried as adults because they are not fully developed cognitively and are more amenable to rehabilitation than adults. In this essay, we will explore both sides of the debate and consider the pros and cons of trying juveniles as adults.
One of the main arguments in favor of trying juveniles as adults is that certain offenses are so heinous that the offender, regardless of age, must be held fully accountable for their actions. For example, if a juvenile commits a murder or a violent sexual assault, it could be argued that they should be tried as adults in order to send a strong message that such crimes will not be tolerated. This approach also allows for longer sentences and greater punishment, which may be seen as necessary in order to adequately address the harm caused by the crime and protect the community.
Additionally, some argue that trying juveniles as adults may serve as a deterrent to other young people who may be considering committing similar crimes. By showing that there are serious consequences for breaking the law, it may discourage others from following in the offender's footsteps.
On the other hand, there are several compelling arguments against trying juveniles as adults. One of the main arguments is that juveniles are not fully developed cognitively and are therefore less culpable for their actions than adults. The brain's decision-making and impulse control centers are not fully developed until the early 20s, which means that juveniles may not fully understand the consequences of their actions and are more susceptible to peer pressure and outside influences.
Furthermore, research has shown that juveniles are more amenable to rehabilitation than adults and are less likely to reoffend if they receive appropriate treatment and support. By trying juveniles as adults and subjecting them to the harsh conditions of adult prisons, we may be depriving them of the chance to rehabilitate and reintegrate into society.
Another argument against trying juveniles as adults is that it can have negative long-term consequences on their development and future prospects. Being incarcerated in an adult facility can be traumatic and may expose juveniles to violence and other negative influences. This can have lasting effects on their mental health and overall well-being, as well as their ability to find employment and housing after they are released.
In conclusion, the question of whether juveniles should be tried as adults is a complex and difficult one with no easy answers. While there are valid arguments on both sides, it is clear that the decision to try a juvenile as an adult should not be taken lightly and should be based on the individual circumstances of the case. Ultimately, the goal should be to ensure that justice is served and that young offenders have the opportunity to rehabilitate and become productive members of society.
